tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44997591823019699082024-02-18T23:21:17.495-08:00Yorkshire RamblingsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-88998043422562820262017-09-06T08:00:00.002-07:002017-09-06T08:00:17.660-07:00Six Churches Walk - A ten mile circular from Wath-upon-Dearne<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a walk I did last week, sans Sybil as her arthritis has been playing up lately. The route comes from a leaflet I picked up in Rotherham Visitor Centre a while back. It begins at Wath All Saints church, which was closed by the time I arrived, but after a brief look at the outside of the building I joined a footpath over a nearby field to arrive in Brampton Bierlow.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wath-upon-Dearne All Saints</td></tr>
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The weather was glorious and the wildflowers were waist-high and thriving. Several species of butterfly were enjoying the sun while it shone, but all too soon I was leaving the field and turning onto a rather busy road. The second church, West Melton United Reformed, was almost directly ahead; a plain, white building that didn't look like your typical church. This one was also closed so after taking a quick photo I moved on towards the next one, which was only a few hundred yards further up the road.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Admiral</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">West Melton United Reformed Church</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Brampton Bierlow Christ Church, unlike the previous one, was more traditional-looking and I ventured into the grounds and took the opportunity to have a quick rest on a bench while taking in my surroundings. An outstanding view had opened up towards one of my destinations for the day, Hoober Stand. It is easy to get bogged down in the urban areas of Rotherham and to forget about the amazing countryside we have on our doorstep. It also made me aware of how far away Hoober seemed to be and that, despite having seen three of the six churches already, there were still plenty of miles to be covered. So after a quick drink I re-joined the pavement and continued on my way.</span> </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brampton Bierlow Christ Church</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View towards Hoober Stand</td></tr>
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The next few miles were a rather punishing slog along a country lane towards Elsecar. I was quite grateful that I hadn't brought Sybil as she is a nightmare on the lead and neither of us would have enjoyed being tethered to each other for this part.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUp9V4iYxCGeP_ubvKFikcBdelWyLy5d0lBj8wYe9VhZ8tdFNwbYuf087mUJxmDUBVaC-w5Sxtk-HwH7D8JD1uYU1OJWwB5sdOy1fjYLG9Pn4fCon9oELncA8zSmsa_DIqkcGcOHPGpsq/s1600/DSCF7507.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUp9V4iYxCGeP_ubvKFikcBdelWyLy5d0lBj8wYe9VhZ8tdFNwbYuf087mUJxmDUBVaC-w5Sxtk-HwH7D8JD1uYU1OJWwB5sdOy1fjYLG9Pn4fCon9oELncA8zSmsa_DIqkcGcOHPGpsq/s320/DSCF7507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the Trans Pennine Trail</td></tr>
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Eventually the slog ended and turned a corner to see a rather unusual sight: a train reversing along a track over the footpath. I waited until it had passed and carried on to join the Trans Pennine Trail. This was a rather lovely section alongside an old canal, regularly visited by volunteers who kept the area clean and unspoiled for others to enjoy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-PtttxQa8w2HWgqwWyhnK6wRGJ9LnbDQvssRef5jmM-ARzd1XDLUYfV06D3SEY7QYeONp12vpWqnfVpF4ZiLNFIuwc_TFbDV3G1EthNeKPg13ldabAWn14feKVIN8oXEKf7bhzChF2fdr/s1600/DSCF7510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-PtttxQa8w2HWgqwWyhnK6wRGJ9LnbDQvssRef5jmM-ARzd1XDLUYfV06D3SEY7QYeONp12vpWqnfVpF4ZiLNFIuwc_TFbDV3G1EthNeKPg13ldabAWn14feKVIN8oXEKf7bhzChF2fdr/s320/DSCF7510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This part of the walk alone made up for the previous couple of miles. A family of ducks swam by, clearly hoping I would throw some food their way. I resisted their cute little faces and enjoyed the cool shade of the towpath as I strode on towards the village. Soon it was time to leave the trail and veer right into Elsecar; a beautiful place with some rather lovely little cottages.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reform Row cottages</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reform Row cottages</td></tr>
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The next church was soon within sight. Elsecar Holy Trinity was set well back from the road with several stone angels watching over the bodies of the deceased. Again this church was closed, as it was now late afternoon, so after a quick walk around the grounds I carried on towards Elsecar Heritage Centre for a refreshment break.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elsecar Holy Trinity Church</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elsecar Heritage Centre</td></tr>
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This was my first visit to the centre and I was somewhat pleasantly surprised at the natural beauty of the buildings. I guess I was expecting several grubby engines and a fume-coated museum, but instead my interest was piqued by craft and antique shops. I resolved to come back for a proper look the following week. After a decent rest I headed on towards Wentworth and the last two churches of the day.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildflowers</td></tr>
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Moving away from Elsecar, I took a footpath leading back out into open countryside. A huge field merged into King's Wood, which was where the directions got a little confusing. The route was fairly old and it seemed that time or vandals had removed the wooden marker arrows from the trail, but luckily I had walked this way before and carried on up through the wood to be rewarded with a view of Wentworth on the horizon.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDBzmsM1VmOZpWqWmsDEeOq5KMhdCZCdUxAquitCpjud4ishI165FwqS9VQesjePtC3xUHVw3-5SGyG7U6nCQ6zO5_O7KUNiNnLTmj8Ei7leItogFBjxZmNuN-JjYCuL0_T6YwW4ew4q4/s1600/DSCF7536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitDBzmsM1VmOZpWqWmsDEeOq5KMhdCZCdUxAquitCpjud4ishI165FwqS9VQesjePtC3xUHVw3-5SGyG7U6nCQ6zO5_O7KUNiNnLTmj8Ei7leItogFBjxZmNuN-JjYCuL0_T6YwW4ew4q4/s320/DSCF7536.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Old Holy Trinity Church</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjidjA7Q_HnZDrqznDj1niH5yo2jsg9b8jQmEoDJpyTjaI6G0PwyxDBpsPf7oE9alcev1MvX1NDvPOw0JKDTAEENVW4o1lJLuwsEzEzvO84PLOrEaH2KF9mpEtLUA20O2V0-Ibvv13AgrXw/s1600/DSCF7541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjidjA7Q_HnZDrqznDj1niH5yo2jsg9b8jQmEoDJpyTjaI6G0PwyxDBpsPf7oE9alcev1MvX1NDvPOw0JKDTAEENVW4o1lJLuwsEzEzvO84PLOrEaH2KF9mpEtLUA20O2V0-Ibvv13AgrXw/s320/DSCF7541.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Old Holy Trinity Church</td></tr>
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A nice downhill stroll between two hedges brought me out into the village. Here there were two churches practically side by side; one of them almost a ruin now as the village is served by the newer, larger church nearby. Interestingly, the old church was open and I went inside to have a nosey.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxRiDj3LEoA5z9hbYiF9iM6TLRdWXZewFVJgYgATx11s-b-Z16r3IlOV01sM1o5bRc3-03y3NrsQM5aDjCTsf0oFWrQxYMHPhjlfKEewrpCm-V8d2ZLYvvUZM_UUCu3rRjViav2uGMkWQ/s1600/DSCF7544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBxRiDj3LEoA5z9hbYiF9iM6TLRdWXZewFVJgYgATx11s-b-Z16r3IlOV01sM1o5bRc3-03y3NrsQM5aDjCTsf0oFWrQxYMHPhjlfKEewrpCm-V8d2ZLYvvUZM_UUCu3rRjViav2uGMkWQ/s320/DSCF7544.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Old Holy Trinity</td></tr>
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The interior was small yet full of incredible stone figures. Several information boards were dotted around, mainly about the Churches Conservation Trust that was looking after the building. Soon it was time to move on to the last church of the walk, Wentworth Holy Trinity, just across the track.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Holy Trinity<br />
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This church was also open and I had the whole place to myself. The interior was very impressive, with several stained glass windows depicting scenes of the deer park and nature at her best. An image of the wildlife that can be seen around the village caught my eye. Mad March hares were boxing in a field and pheasants were bursting from the grass, no doubt waiting until they were almost underfoot before revealing themselves.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Holy Trinity</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Deer Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xX3cP1yeDt_QPME53l3PpJUIre5VnW4VngfoK__p6-3_Y4Pi0YR_b8yAN2V7d4ltJOJPTs6LCnIZgDrgFE1G97Q3TuH7p-7Gna05SBWt2CXnYa4rO9MjUAV_jTSZAjRXsFpHPxOTQktI/s1600/DSCF7559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xX3cP1yeDt_QPME53l3PpJUIre5VnW4VngfoK__p6-3_Y4Pi0YR_b8yAN2V7d4ltJOJPTs6LCnIZgDrgFE1G97Q3TuH7p-7Gna05SBWt2CXnYa4rO9MjUAV_jTSZAjRXsFpHPxOTQktI/s320/DSCF7559.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Holy Trinity</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSvsh04ec6eAenMBU-o08C4gqxqCtqPWpfbKjE1vXA1eUaudpvEZWqv_tjepdu0JQLJYMazkPMrQljnyAYM9m0rW5crYdDp4SSdKN-nen1Bcx1jNXiO33pZts663WXDw5G6A-fvP4nJcK/s1600/DSCF7562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSvsh04ec6eAenMBU-o08C4gqxqCtqPWpfbKjE1vXA1eUaudpvEZWqv_tjepdu0JQLJYMazkPMrQljnyAYM9m0rW5crYdDp4SSdKN-nen1Bcx1jNXiO33pZts663WXDw5G6A-fvP4nJcK/s320/DSCF7562.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Holy Trinity</td></tr>
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I'm not sure if it was due to the delightful stained glass, or the general openness of the large church, but this was the first church I'd felt somewhat comfortable being in for a long time. Losing my mum three years ago had made me feel very bitter towards religion of any sort, yet this building felt non-judgemental. I guess having the church to myself helped as well.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Thgc-6tyc6EBPOOJIiy1kNpHSbGXBPrOFiRIBRsQmwApWnesyKBGOGi6lo6SWsdO8RLmsPg2gUuh32mGFiSwASXQIoP6VKGqYURYr056v6PbF9QtFBYoxPxgL5PdhdQRS6te-_iSINuI/s1600/DSCF7567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Thgc-6tyc6EBPOOJIiy1kNpHSbGXBPrOFiRIBRsQmwApWnesyKBGOGi6lo6SWsdO8RLmsPg2gUuh32mGFiSwASXQIoP6VKGqYURYr056v6PbF9QtFBYoxPxgL5PdhdQRS6te-_iSINuI/s320/DSCF7567.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoober Stand</td></tr>
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The route continued through the village of Wentworth before turning off over several fields and heading towards Hoober Stand. I've been here a few times before with Sybil so enjoyed the feeling of being on familiar turf before leaving the woods and starting a punishing descent back to Wath on narrow, country lanes. It had turned 7pm before I reached my start point of Wath All Saints; at this point the church felt like an old friend and I was ready for home.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOAnfTBkkrj_QYMuqq8QwZMk3TehWEss3iXeZIhtN4EvO9ZL2zYPOBFqn_WsdihURzG77R2qXHc2uKjZF3uOa51ZfeZGbUEazgnNRenGvKGxKGTC33MTYDilDPol096faz4n5_ZfMy3Bo/s1600/DSCF7478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOAnfTBkkrj_QYMuqq8QwZMk3TehWEss3iXeZIhtN4EvO9ZL2zYPOBFqn_WsdihURzG77R2qXHc2uKjZF3uOa51ZfeZGbUEazgnNRenGvKGxKGTC33MTYDilDPol096faz4n5_ZfMy3Bo/s320/DSCF7478.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wath All Saints sundial</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-13204392730971357912016-12-01T02:45:00.000-08:002016-12-01T02:45:10.573-08:00A stroll through Scholes and Wentworth<br />
Yesterday's walk was one I've done many times, yet one I will never get tired of repeating. We started just outside the village of Scholes and walked up the main street, admiring the gorgeous houses and giving a quick fuss to the horses as we passed. Before long, we reached the entrance to Scholes Coppice and Sybil made the most of her freedom by promptly finding a squirrel to chase.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpWaEJsjnqISDjBK1yAZ97afVwATobWvYlVR-rL3XmMqSOhwjkz2z7Gcxby0xS3kMN_N6RJ55p9qco0eSoasW1dws0QXS_6IU8kX1eDoUViCyzU4Qe6GhgzkD4TFZkfPsjfravukJhDH1v/s1600/DSCF6530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpWaEJsjnqISDjBK1yAZ97afVwATobWvYlVR-rL3XmMqSOhwjkz2z7Gcxby0xS3kMN_N6RJ55p9qco0eSoasW1dws0QXS_6IU8kX1eDoUViCyzU4Qe6GhgzkD4TFZkfPsjfravukJhDH1v/s320/DSCF6530.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keppel's Column</td></tr>
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An immediate right turn saw us heading up onto Keppel's Field, with the Column dominating from the top right-hand corner. Sybil was truly enjoying the walk now; the field was unusually busy for a weekday, with plenty of other dogs for her to annoy. We skirted around the cattle enclosure and re-entered Scholes Coppice, passing the Iron Age Fort of Caesar's Camp. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83bg82LcFnPpzFuOgLBIrnWP7MB5W_VYd86IsrArtGXSXsaDrT4H1w7KrfSNUz8tb94qad9j_U6BgNoa2lUrvfmviV9o7pdyuwzIcTAnL_R-bXDTawLDBk93eH6vBFRHD8sMmolxSYZqs/s1600/DSCF6536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj83bg82LcFnPpzFuOgLBIrnWP7MB5W_VYd86IsrArtGXSXsaDrT4H1w7KrfSNUz8tb94qad9j_U6BgNoa2lUrvfmviV9o7pdyuwzIcTAnL_R-bXDTawLDBk93eH6vBFRHD8sMmolxSYZqs/s320/DSCF6536.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sybil at Caesar's Camp</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bumping into an old friend</td></tr>
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It was here we saw my niece and her Labrador, Meg. Meg went crazy, jumping up at me and trying to eat my camera, as I hadn't seen her for a while and she had obviously missed me. Sybil came up and had a quick sniff and fuss then disappeared again, back to terrorizing the local squirrels. We parted ways and carried on towards Wentworth via the Greasbrough Dams, crossing over a field with ridiculously heavy clay soil that stuck to my boots and slowed progress considerably.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmY0rTuaJHZ4NSqwchmPXbOLrjhzZYXNDQOw_0G4ec9X6kWM0hVPKTd1YwnMiZOKvstyRlyy1bg-sC2XgYfGCFspZt88gmVP1dJ0NPw1ze066UnF_muYzcEMC_yS-XrnDeylBWoOw24xh/s1600/DSCF6545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmY0rTuaJHZ4NSqwchmPXbOLrjhzZYXNDQOw_0G4ec9X6kWM0hVPKTd1YwnMiZOKvstyRlyy1bg-sC2XgYfGCFspZt88gmVP1dJ0NPw1ze066UnF_muYzcEMC_yS-XrnDeylBWoOw24xh/s320/DSCF6545.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking half the field with me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27KL36fCDcBJmPvzf4w6jki0ok5QYBdsREC7ut0P7kZzSy7Jo2Z11uEGufsu0Awj4hIoS4cnz8egv6Z2z7v6tTbvWaY2uUKbGZ7ufDWn4T3FT0w0XvnXVxmsk3Nb_Xv7CXvw1qwJnZODy/s1600/DSCF6550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg27KL36fCDcBJmPvzf4w6jki0ok5QYBdsREC7ut0P7kZzSy7Jo2Z11uEGufsu0Awj4hIoS4cnz8egv6Z2z7v6tTbvWaY2uUKbGZ7ufDWn4T3FT0w0XvnXVxmsk3Nb_Xv7CXvw1qwJnZODy/s320/DSCF6550.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greasbrough Dams</td></tr>
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After shaking the worst of the mud off, we finally reached the dams. At the estate road we turned left, heading towards Wentworth Woodhouse which had recently been in the news for being awarded a substantial amount of cash for it's renovation. Curiously, a collection of vehicles were parked outside the stately home. Getting closer, I noticed that one of the trucks had "TV and Film Make Up" written on the side; obviously something was being filmed here. But what? And more importantly, was this my chance to shine by sneaking onto camera and getting my fifteen minutes of fame?<br />
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A gentleman working for the company informed us that a drama called King Charles III was being filmed and would be broadcast on the TV next year. The conversation proved to be very interesting, as he also told us other programmes that had used Wentworth Woodhouse as a filming location, such as Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wentworth Woodhouse, TV star</td></tr>
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Thanking him, we moved on and had a brief look at the old stables behind the house. Sadly, no horses are still around to call this their home, so we moved on and came out into Wentworth village. It was at this point<em> </em>I managed to twist my ankle badly, making the rest of the walk a rather painful effort; being a hardy Northerner, however, I was able to grin and bear it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the stable gates</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The old stables</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stable gates</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stable gates</td></tr>
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Passing Wentworth Garden Centre, we then crossed a large field that took us back down towards Scholes. Keppel's Column appeared on the horizon, empathising how far I had walked; which made me feel slightly better considering how tender my ankle was feeling.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIMin-N0BhOBqbnoMnhG2v299KE_R9sSdb42ukAcY7JN3TH97vZyB8s9IeCtvUKBtxFI_Y11gXUUD3GSelGjU6OdSe3YgIPeSgvXXu1Vk0oCrra-v1rPvlxTz0g2EVYvkmFM83rfEiTqZ/s1600/DSCF6573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIMin-N0BhOBqbnoMnhG2v299KE_R9sSdb42ukAcY7JN3TH97vZyB8s9IeCtvUKBtxFI_Y11gXUUD3GSelGjU6OdSe3YgIPeSgvXXu1Vk0oCrra-v1rPvlxTz0g2EVYvkmFM83rfEiTqZ/s320/DSCF6573.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many follies in the area</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morley Pond</td></tr>
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Even Sybil was tiring by now, and mindful of her arthritic hips we made it a steady walk back to the car. Two injured, tired, yet totally relaxed and happy creatures finally made it home and spent the res of the evening having a well-deserved cuddle and resting up for the next adventure.<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-18068497295164002062016-11-06T14:46:00.000-08:002016-11-06T14:46:07.871-08:00Oh Deer. A bracing walk along White Edge.<br />
Thursday was the first time in a long while that I have managed to get out for a decent walk by myself. With my own mental health suffering as of late and Sybil recently being diagnosed with arthritis in her hips, we've been limited to short local walks and allotment duties. But having heard about the red deer lurking in the Peak District near the Longshaw Estate, I was determined to go and see them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQGf4JX1JbWnkDOb2TY9ksRWo-wq2NLkLkY-aMI_IAbbpLsLonY0tOVeZCzwxJTXQP2hvD4BFdQyayVU5_48QNA84s9EyO1hZgCHyE3TZGTSrYfYusDFuqHzNHuiKOnKl0MLHpMOj-kQR/s1600/20161103_094638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQGf4JX1JbWnkDOb2TY9ksRWo-wq2NLkLkY-aMI_IAbbpLsLonY0tOVeZCzwxJTXQP2hvD4BFdQyayVU5_48QNA84s9EyO1hZgCHyE3TZGTSrYfYusDFuqHzNHuiKOnKl0MLHpMOj-kQR/s320/20161103_094638.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Padley Gorge</td></tr>
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The train to Sheffield was delayed and as a result Sybil and I ended up sandwiched between a suited businessman and an equally posh lady in a black skirt and expensive blouse. After years of taking Sybil on public transport, I've discovered that the other passengers will react to her in one of two ways: they will smile as she wags her tail and forces them to make eye contact with her, eventually resulting in them fussing her for the duration of the journey. Or they will scowl and do their best to ignore her as she inches closer and closer to them, intent on winning them over yet failing miserably. Our travelling companions on this train unfortunately fell into the latter group and pointedly brushed their clothes down as Sybil got too close to them. I would get her to sit in front of my legs only for the train to lurch sideways each time, unsettling her and making her stand up again. Our suited friends eyed her warily, frowning at the dog hairs drifting through the carriage ready to land on their designer clothes. Our discomfort finally ended as we pulled into Sheffield station where Sybil was just as keen to leave the train as I was.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9MevdB2xUqxSXJKggDZqExtVbdy2VUz41zRafPMWW7j5NcecjoIO3D1fxps9i2wuFkgq0ikTxygL4pNLQ2d_rMuzn7VA6ycBrTLuxn-c7sMUa6qjUHSEKDZSrstYys8yGvlAfGQnhoZV/s1600/20161103_101131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9MevdB2xUqxSXJKggDZqExtVbdy2VUz41zRafPMWW7j5NcecjoIO3D1fxps9i2wuFkgq0ikTxygL4pNLQ2d_rMuzn7VA6ycBrTLuxn-c7sMUa6qjUHSEKDZSrstYys8yGvlAfGQnhoZV/s320/20161103_101131.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Padley Gorge's glorious Autumn colours</td></tr>
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The next train in our journey was waiting for us to board and Sybil dragged me along the platform, eager to get the travelling over and get to a place she could finally be off-lead. This time, we had a block of four seats to ourselves and indeed most of the carriage, as no doubt most people were too sensible to spend such a cold day out in the hills when rain was forecast. I settled in my seat, pulling Sybil out of the way when a lady with a bike got on. This time, Sybil's magic worked and she was soon getting her much-needed attention from the woman while we chatted and soon found we had quite a lot in common. It seemed we both used walking as a type of therapy to improve our mental health. She told me how exercise and being outdoors helps to lift her mood while I mentioned how my anxiety can make it incredibly difficult to get out of the house sometimes, and how important Sybil was to me in that respect. By the time the train reached our station, Sybil was practically sitting on the woman's knee and I hastily removed my weapon of mass affection and we all left the train together, parting ways at the Grindleford Café and wishing each other luck for our respective walks.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OP32peI_xg4x0A9HC5QB4XP4Z1WKZXgUheJxGs9Weo2oMkQg4Jk3E_CeXWOD6HKfuXfwxGz7tr1NslWC3Wc2Thx7imH7RbCh8mJgX6aG-0vU_sR92XD_0fDqGkGqsIpc9-n7RJCp1QmZ/s1600/20161103_095200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OP32peI_xg4x0A9HC5QB4XP4Z1WKZXgUheJxGs9Weo2oMkQg4Jk3E_CeXWOD6HKfuXfwxGz7tr1NslWC3Wc2Thx7imH7RbCh8mJgX6aG-0vU_sR92XD_0fDqGkGqsIpc9-n7RJCp1QmZ/s320/20161103_095200.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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Our route took us up through Padley Gorge, an amazingly beautiful woodland with living moss on every rock and the autumn colours offering a scene unrivalled by any television screen or mobile phone display. We've walked through this wood many times, but never at the height of this season so it was especially wonderful to see. All too soon the view opened up towards Carl Wark and Higger Tor and we headed over towards the Longshaw Estate.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwarSzc_6w5XRdWAu9pUPIJTadLe0KqpuSv4PkN-ugj2fo02IKL2qoyNF8NiF8dggDdI8NQQP43-Ac9ASBuJAEx5pZByGL4Zzb4P2Mz7xHMpV9jsMYEm2TWQGKsUPTb5dPi-jGTGy2T0i/s1600/20161103_101723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidwarSzc_6w5XRdWAu9pUPIJTadLe0KqpuSv4PkN-ugj2fo02IKL2qoyNF8NiF8dggDdI8NQQP43-Ac9ASBuJAEx5pZByGL4Zzb4P2Mz7xHMpV9jsMYEm2TWQGKsUPTb5dPi-jGTGy2T0i/s320/20161103_101723.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carl Wark and Higger Tor</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longshaw pond</td></tr>
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It was at this point that I realised I'd forgotten something important: my camera battery. I'd charged it the night before, but in a moment of unexplainable stupidity I'd neglected to put it back in the camera. So I had a rather useless camera body now taking up space in my backpack and only my phone camera to take pictures with. I wouldn't be too upset; only, my phone camera is rubbish at taking decent photos using the zoom, and the main purpose of this walk was to see the deer which would obviously be some distance away. I consoled myself by indulging in a hot chocolate at the Longshaw tearoom before continuing the journey toward the busy A road at the beginning of White Edge Moor.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_C043Jwfqo8LYEVbY4h6iVfbXeFiFHL5mGFCyZhq3DiNZfl_QPPy7YQMqpClMmD3e0a9s3bAv_E6D4H1DzEmKSQwBTmZthy2GaUWZVQ-J4WAGSWlUGJKRGM6YUFPAlYknBpyjrZx14YYs/s1600/20161103_102806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_C043Jwfqo8LYEVbY4h6iVfbXeFiFHL5mGFCyZhq3DiNZfl_QPPy7YQMqpClMmD3e0a9s3bAv_E6D4H1DzEmKSQwBTmZthy2GaUWZVQ-J4WAGSWlUGJKRGM6YUFPAlYknBpyjrZx14YYs/s320/20161103_102806.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VGPA387QUlLf_xiES2qdjeRX_eneiyq_kSOVyLgfLDfiU2C8UW-1wnH9hdilhdVRCi6Z-pXtL4Wht8omY_QlY6ogOa77uMxG99W_WPJ1kYpQwDVyLX3df9xJLX74sVvGyPKmGHZPZIZd/s1600/20161103_114232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4VGPA387QUlLf_xiES2qdjeRX_eneiyq_kSOVyLgfLDfiU2C8UW-1wnH9hdilhdVRCi6Z-pXtL4Wht8omY_QlY6ogOa77uMxG99W_WPJ1kYpQwDVyLX3df9xJLX74sVvGyPKmGHZPZIZd/s320/20161103_114232.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything the light touches...</td></tr>
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Carefully crossing the road, we joined a track that quickly became rough and uneven. It didn't faze Sybil though; she bounded along in front as easily as if she was half-mountain goat rather than half-collie. We followed the Edge to the left, enjoying the fantastic views of the Dark Peak - the green hills in the distance contrasting nicely with the bracken-clad slopes immediately below us. It wasn't long before I spotted my first deer on the horizon: an impressive-looking stag with several hinds. I was ecstatic, and happily shared my binoculars with a passing dog-walker whilst Sybil attempted to play nicely with his spaniel. I decided to carry on to the trig point after another group of hikers told me there were more deer further along the Edge; and sure enough after a decent stretch of walking, more stags appeared to my left, even closer this time. I tried my best to get a photo of them, and managed these very blurry ones after placing my phone camera up to my binoculars and using the extra "zoom" the best I could.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLVZ9qIRbK4eLvU9jS_O2o4mQR-Gqmss2Jily0p3SG1L59oOLBbStOVm0mm_6CLFP91IYbvk-_ne2evf771poUBb5VHPXZmGmqMTd2_2IJrDR8O4ZRn1hYgPSScSvwhaWWQR0knh8PUGN/s1600/20161103_120102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLVZ9qIRbK4eLvU9jS_O2o4mQR-Gqmss2Jily0p3SG1L59oOLBbStOVm0mm_6CLFP91IYbvk-_ne2evf771poUBb5VHPXZmGmqMTd2_2IJrDR8O4ZRn1hYgPSScSvwhaWWQR0knh8PUGN/s320/20161103_120102.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First stag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7tMDcR90mm-RZSCiRzZ8U-sxcJM6S_xJiPtazPCGo3GPDpv10L57397_NyKc4HN75BFfeMsTIOsCejXzA4G1I3c3VNAvCpwNTnaSoWn5KSLzPfNDB1rgPnKJw3XlpiChCTICU7FXLNgT/s1600/20161103_131941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7tMDcR90mm-RZSCiRzZ8U-sxcJM6S_xJiPtazPCGo3GPDpv10L57397_NyKc4HN75BFfeMsTIOsCejXzA4G1I3c3VNAvCpwNTnaSoWn5KSLzPfNDB1rgPnKJw3XlpiChCTICU7FXLNgT/s320/20161103_131941.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A young stag with his own little harem</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eating my lunch whilst sitting so close to these majestic beasts was easily one of the highlights of my life. I finished my sandwiches just as the weather started closing in, so with my hood firmly up and hands in pockets, I whistled to Sybil and we started back the way we had come. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsnhCmGrd_cBHrgKqfuW4Oqcs7fYy1CGP4-myvoYPNCWAzE9mbco87dcVMRPyQOZffpXaeyK3KxTZetEm8jjrCyjHcRn_af_5DVb1eD7REg4f_Yy-enNyO6LByYTWDXH6o8uqdSHVw1Z6b/s1600/20161103_124628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsnhCmGrd_cBHrgKqfuW4Oqcs7fYy1CGP4-myvoYPNCWAzE9mbco87dcVMRPyQOZffpXaeyK3KxTZetEm8jjrCyjHcRn_af_5DVb1eD7REg4f_Yy-enNyO6LByYTWDXH6o8uqdSHVw1Z6b/s320/20161103_124628.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the trig point</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMImQPGXP2WJkGJM9NH61o1inpm8BRzvq7WYVDM0Kcdt78GlPseIQsbhoYzHMqwo7fOYEDLYhmukDdAU_VXr_my9BE4DioYcF4mXR-sDXyYh95FIUk0oI4GHPCqsVp678wLO54uNlsxKy_/s1600/20161103_115429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMImQPGXP2WJkGJM9NH61o1inpm8BRzvq7WYVDM0Kcdt78GlPseIQsbhoYzHMqwo7fOYEDLYhmukDdAU_VXr_my9BE4DioYcF4mXR-sDXyYh95FIUk0oI4GHPCqsVp678wLO54uNlsxKy_/s320/20161103_115429.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Companion Stones</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Walking back was a difficult slog in the wind and rain, especially with this being my first challenging hike in a long time. Running only on banana sandwiches, it was a relief to finally reach the tearoom again and I treated myself to another hot chocolate, mainly to warm my hands up, and a flapjack which of course I shared with my loyal walking companion. Although not so loyal on the way back through Padley Gorge, where she decided she would join two gentlemen in front rather than stick to the snail's pace I was setting.<br />
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Thankfully the train journey home was uneventful, as we missed the main rush hour and worn-out Sybil was more interested in curling up under my seat than seeking out new friends. A hot bath and warm food were calling me, along with my friend Adam when I managed to get signal on my phone. "Do you fancy coming to a bonfire tonight?"<br />
<br />
Oh deer.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEEwVYO7XNgUvILTmezrF1_HrgFhmxaB1y91fbkf9pPZRmY1qba8aOxEmF_jhyphenhyphenya5AFb2g2vR-3ixt_w2QGtK_sgQtcfsw4RPM7o_ggRKY4i3YGaaLm1Ddxgu-eXaMZoo_VKWfHiMdS2aH/s1600/20161103_123032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEEwVYO7XNgUvILTmezrF1_HrgFhmxaB1y91fbkf9pPZRmY1qba8aOxEmF_jhyphenhyphenya5AFb2g2vR-3ixt_w2QGtK_sgQtcfsw4RPM7o_ggRKY4i3YGaaLm1Ddxgu-eXaMZoo_VKWfHiMdS2aH/s320/20161103_123032.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-44109413597741345772016-06-06T15:07:00.001-07:002016-06-06T15:07:49.361-07:00Potteric Carr Springwatch Festival<br />
I love a good festival; that is, as long as there are no alcohol, partying or noisy screaming bands involved. A nice, calm nature festival is more up my street and indeed, there was just the thing being held over the weekend at Potteric Carr nature reserve. I arrived at the reserve just in time to sign up for the Stroll and Sketch event - a gentle stroll around part of the reserve with plenty of chances for sketching various scenes. <br />
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Afterwards the café beckoned and I enjoyed a delicious veggie sausage sandwich, before having a wander around the different stalls. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqC1RM4-_l3VlsrYiH6OAYAzjE16dogr76z3qCAybegsQ1HGWBfZQRhUn33BXahyMgW_K86lgAiKWKW3PnI4RI_6xHKH0xxndY_RBVRWoO5x4ZqH2NulEK6XzVi7OxvqKduOsNiGe3xP3-/s1600/DSCF5874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqC1RM4-_l3VlsrYiH6OAYAzjE16dogr76z3qCAybegsQ1HGWBfZQRhUn33BXahyMgW_K86lgAiKWKW3PnI4RI_6xHKH0xxndY_RBVRWoO5x4ZqH2NulEK6XzVi7OxvqKduOsNiGe3xP3-/s320/DSCF5874.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four Spotted Chaser</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Clutching a handful of leaflets, I paid a visit to the Willow Pool Hide, always a popular one; most likely due to its proximity to the café but also because of some of the gems it occasionally reveals. Today there were no water rails or kingfishers, at least not whilst I was there, but there was a rather sweet rat picking through the spoils.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QdSMMWdlx5lNObbB4Q5yEn2WaJCrBYvgBUxEK0wptkHaA5qy2J5Zpscmumxq0l0AvhXtEdkC64vVIBcLFA8VMaKw7WmPxLJLXAUENIWpfv6n3KvL3uQmZrPmuEcwJu1MoCVH9dKyiLU9/s1600/DSCF5892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QdSMMWdlx5lNObbB4Q5yEn2WaJCrBYvgBUxEK0wptkHaA5qy2J5Zpscmumxq0l0AvhXtEdkC64vVIBcLFA8VMaKw7WmPxLJLXAUENIWpfv6n3KvL3uQmZrPmuEcwJu1MoCVH9dKyiLU9/s320/DSCF5892.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the hide</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Yi8V7LRhhc6f61guLxm5VtZgOY9LhwVv1H4yNGNH0o-m5CqZ5JhzzYUay7VxOswu8W59l_j8kJ2Y8GO61LweiifV4cGg7a1K0dQ9x_LimYRa015cjpCJjw3b6NwR7YFNyTOHGcu_HIcN/s1600/DSCF5883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Yi8V7LRhhc6f61guLxm5VtZgOY9LhwVv1H4yNGNH0o-m5CqZ5JhzzYUay7VxOswu8W59l_j8kJ2Y8GO61LweiifV4cGg7a1K0dQ9x_LimYRa015cjpCJjw3b6NwR7YFNyTOHGcu_HIcN/s320/DSCF5883.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hungry rat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAQGHEMWvT7aHfcn6JsARpXbseLAVffpO1joFKF7UnL3g7zaaRDneknUbVKGLn0stpYzSq1hakUW2XfkFiuDhn61WA7HA-zVz1AoR9Re6FKtIVfX263y5m79sPcODaR4AcWEIrwuWrv5Z/s1600/DSCF5906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAQGHEMWvT7aHfcn6JsARpXbseLAVffpO1joFKF7UnL3g7zaaRDneknUbVKGLn0stpYzSq1hakUW2XfkFiuDhn61WA7HA-zVz1AoR9Re6FKtIVfX263y5m79sPcODaR4AcWEIrwuWrv5Z/s320/DSCF5906.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Female Chaffinch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTDXMvquBdc6wfkC-Y4dHrJ43qH7HFbiBO0h_-6JZF6MXCho_03PpYXC9_eAyA_7XA9ivDfRT24f9-5SPNHUBR7S_nzGyaLOD7g02WDgwh70SvjQRW-ox7bHj3JOmaRkFi9RQ4Kmj-ttt/s1600/DSCF5914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTDXMvquBdc6wfkC-Y4dHrJ43qH7HFbiBO0h_-6JZF6MXCho_03PpYXC9_eAyA_7XA9ivDfRT24f9-5SPNHUBR7S_nzGyaLOD7g02WDgwh70SvjQRW-ox7bHj3JOmaRkFi9RQ4Kmj-ttt/s320/DSCF5914.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coot family</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJ9sFSTsAyLJJJfH8_h6e7CzdTILOw_Oie5N6kQf0KBMPTjh5rrPo7S4KfcPBtwVJFmaopnSZieuT1Rd1jemoZRIPAJIK783bHErQ2bVCG2lUvY-i8lsiKUAAgM2GsSSV4pCDDIu0F0Ku/s1600/DSCF5909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJ9sFSTsAyLJJJfH8_h6e7CzdTILOw_Oie5N6kQf0KBMPTjh5rrPo7S4KfcPBtwVJFmaopnSZieuT1Rd1jemoZRIPAJIK783bHErQ2bVCG2lUvY-i8lsiKUAAgM2GsSSV4pCDDIu0F0Ku/s320/DSCF5909.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male Chaffinch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I then took a good walk around the reserve, following the wetland trail. I spotted a couple of distant little egrets, along with plenty of butterflies and blue damselflies.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtvlBGmyfR0GKFIf70qKCzEB0s02DlbIhUagcGaSHz8IJJd5E25XCx61OpLBcwQsEta8JTYd5VfEBEQ8LIBidA2iGFOoHcby9TB8I-hpKt09n87DadTY2o0rE3WG2WHWwHs28kCAboAQw/s1600/DSCF5937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtvlBGmyfR0GKFIf70qKCzEB0s02DlbIhUagcGaSHz8IJJd5E25XCx61OpLBcwQsEta8JTYd5VfEBEQ8LIBidA2iGFOoHcby9TB8I-hpKt09n87DadTY2o0rE3WG2WHWwHs28kCAboAQw/s320/DSCF5937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVefesga1EQCbQb7q9RMWsQFtOFFIQI5oRMV6SNhOESEmgAsk8U-9eSkljGlZj_YVdDJTsxR4bsyqBHzGFsdtlZybnIM9CBPAcz71MmTWJ6J18GOEYfS23DiegCGO862g3O6yyUwo_DHU-/s1600/DSCF5939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVefesga1EQCbQb7q9RMWsQFtOFFIQI5oRMV6SNhOESEmgAsk8U-9eSkljGlZj_YVdDJTsxR4bsyqBHzGFsdtlZybnIM9CBPAcz71MmTWJ6J18GOEYfS23DiegCGO862g3O6yyUwo_DHU-/s320/DSCF5939.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Egret</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzp6Rudt1A2R0w2tz7gzzBL81m_Cd5fo7q7FHSbKGj5FoQSO-uJ9dYeBbI4QJoaLuJbAJW9zvWStSMmqiHGgQqsIhLSht7SFvRQmDqN7M2AN414VvLtEKKwphXAQmLeLi7Uv-sSex9dOb/s1600/DSCF5941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzp6Rudt1A2R0w2tz7gzzBL81m_Cd5fo7q7FHSbKGj5FoQSO-uJ9dYeBbI4QJoaLuJbAJW9zvWStSMmqiHGgQqsIhLSht7SFvRQmDqN7M2AN414VvLtEKKwphXAQmLeLi7Uv-sSex9dOb/s320/DSCF5941.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ragged Robin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9i9oeQH7XZIebi05Jlu55QEyig-FqtUx96ot35zb4jQ6XUqgqJGzylF_RJ31m10VYpw8elW-tcSHIeGLHnMWS0T4CXY-CITD7XCrOhMVM8d9u1HULnTzlc5XW1_2CSDrETCFDkODMCjlc/s1600/DSCF5949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9i9oeQH7XZIebi05Jlu55QEyig-FqtUx96ot35zb4jQ6XUqgqJGzylF_RJ31m10VYpw8elW-tcSHIeGLHnMWS0T4CXY-CITD7XCrOhMVM8d9u1HULnTzlc5XW1_2CSDrETCFDkODMCjlc/s320/DSCF5949.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dog Rose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lg0dTVuMl9D5pWFQkknc6oaKVRMYSzFHJIOIG0G1KmOnNhjBm8kG42bOMzaFDeu-sIDGIoU5dMaIsQUowl3KeGhV7kDjk7o-n-RS5708oH2zpGc4pWwVsnP_YHlJTxf-xRbOddMTu6Oi/s1600/DSCF5968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lg0dTVuMl9D5pWFQkknc6oaKVRMYSzFHJIOIG0G1KmOnNhjBm8kG42bOMzaFDeu-sIDGIoU5dMaIsQUowl3KeGhV7kDjk7o-n-RS5708oH2zpGc4pWwVsnP_YHlJTxf-xRbOddMTu6Oi/s320/DSCF5968.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yellow Iris</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eventually it was time to turn back, so I followed the route back round, stopping briefly at the West Scrape Hide where, to my delight, I heard a bittern booming. Unfortunately it was concealed in the reedbeds, but just hearing one close by is exciting in itself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHK4YlH0tq5i_LHXtFv_7_tWSmjWpmoIZIG6IpwIPRvdu8c8GkG19RN3PqFhyphenhyphen-yKLTaIMubhp_NqtbQIiIPmbq6g57Jjgk9qWrFDx5cXTt6z2C4thVUBN26IQ2ldrIICo645dp0WvGbUEK/s1600/DSCF5976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHK4YlH0tq5i_LHXtFv_7_tWSmjWpmoIZIG6IpwIPRvdu8c8GkG19RN3PqFhyphenhyphen-yKLTaIMubhp_NqtbQIiIPmbq6g57Jjgk9qWrFDx5cXTt6z2C4thVUBN26IQ2ldrIICo645dp0WvGbUEK/s320/DSCF5976.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perch in the Mother Drain</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLWy35c3aIfreFi3DayBXmmsIN802GrCPYqV7CEffSJRao0pGEFJcohqt4xVAlb_2wuSyN8RKkcbeOv82YbuaV2AGKHpCpD4nHzqrOKAqZhacFnIvfMTKqa18JnXU9YmldCEJ0SJBvAmH/s1600/DSCF5981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLWy35c3aIfreFi3DayBXmmsIN802GrCPYqV7CEffSJRao0pGEFJcohqt4xVAlb_2wuSyN8RKkcbeOv82YbuaV2AGKHpCpD4nHzqrOKAqZhacFnIvfMTKqa18JnXU9YmldCEJ0SJBvAmH/s320/DSCF5981.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Common Spotted Orchid</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1mc5fLZjKV0NmnxVYWqacD0FJvWz-AVTDuSF2nbO_vf2uZuQ4kzt_p9DuGHdxYk4ck1IPnST9b7UoBC_qzysUEKOVyQShl9jzBU1XYQbjZI6rIiAdlF_u2om-drAYsppvkn3K50qzTulD/s1600/DSCF5996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1mc5fLZjKV0NmnxVYWqacD0FJvWz-AVTDuSF2nbO_vf2uZuQ4kzt_p9DuGHdxYk4ck1IPnST9b7UoBC_qzysUEKOVyQShl9jzBU1XYQbjZI6rIiAdlF_u2om-drAYsppvkn3K50qzTulD/s320/DSCF5996.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey Bees</td></tr>
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The path was diverted away from the butterfly garden. Nature reserves, much like my allotment, are a constant work-in-progress and never really seem to be "finished", as such. This diversion took me past a small but cheerful display of orchids. The one species of orchid I haven't yet seen, but would love to, is the bee orchid. Hopefully I will manage to see some this summer.<br />
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I paused by the bee hives, watching the honey bees busy working. Then it was back through the visitor centre and over to the bus stop, slightly browner in skin-tone than when I had arrived and much lighter in my mood.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-4450339441069226962016-04-01T14:07:00.000-07:002016-04-01T14:07:47.874-07:00Spring has Sprung<br />
Spring is finally here in South Yorkshire! I've been visiting the allotment almost every day, trying to get as much digging finished as possible before the last frosts in May. I'm certainly getting there, only got a few more beds to dig now and I've had wood and aluminium covering the ground to kill the grass and weeds off so it's easier to dig. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL1hEV6ayAs38LicdSZRoO8e9XIyLNlrHwsVkP-z-qhHKEc_4SpZr4yLe6-leFvmb8zBw6jXPy-gI9qn3WFBKd9MWPbQpY_qNcbSH_uhaT3_E4zHxkJKE_jADTNfWigIiptzmQwjuCtlT/s1600/DSCF5484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJL1hEV6ayAs38LicdSZRoO8e9XIyLNlrHwsVkP-z-qhHKEc_4SpZr4yLe6-leFvmb8zBw6jXPy-gI9qn3WFBKd9MWPbQpY_qNcbSH_uhaT3_E4zHxkJKE_jADTNfWigIiptzmQwjuCtlT/s320/DSCF5484.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pond and wildflower area</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK22QIPfK6U4jfQe21y4OmEfraknkWOl02ysXnB15nWAVaQAvmRS_ab-BBvefeGd3Dg4yh31pAtsVNmTVitvdDji0KNpMemrjQ4aD_sODkc3dOsUGDdQ3JWmpG8Zwtg5SpQu0abjhDc5dY/s1600/DSCF5486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK22QIPfK6U4jfQe21y4OmEfraknkWOl02ysXnB15nWAVaQAvmRS_ab-BBvefeGd3Dg4yh31pAtsVNmTVitvdDji0KNpMemrjQ4aD_sODkc3dOsUGDdQ3JWmpG8Zwtg5SpQu0abjhDc5dY/s320/DSCF5486.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still plenty of raking to do!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jM7ZQPuQbR-mXdURWKgSjTRBx9sICB5veHaoUhwiR7MYxwh1iG__-H2lG4HdipBstofZsSaYSMfhCDG_ZkuLLHr6_yQEpVPcTTrNAwC9zWcl0FV3WhKwHbCP-V9ChIR5Aq_fpYukXF2Q/s1600/DSCF5482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jM7ZQPuQbR-mXdURWKgSjTRBx9sICB5veHaoUhwiR7MYxwh1iG__-H2lG4HdipBstofZsSaYSMfhCDG_ZkuLLHr6_yQEpVPcTTrNAwC9zWcl0FV3WhKwHbCP-V9ChIR5Aq_fpYukXF2Q/s320/DSCF5482.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's getting there...slowly</td></tr>
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I've sown the wildflower seeds next to the little pond; this year I've covered them with a little polytunnel to stop the birds eating most of them. Last year I had plenty of cornflowers grow but not much else - I'd love lots of poppies this year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKupSaKhfmbOK18B01rroQxExgVodaiwHjRzoiU60NkJ2kYjQJ6V5p40k90w54aAJOpcIRcNd528_iVvM6GnkZ4kInGfgoHJ9Wnx-2LsSssYdx_2YF4Eu8JEGlOPPNh4HaDIJlQwOgYuDm/s1600/DSCF5498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKupSaKhfmbOK18B01rroQxExgVodaiwHjRzoiU60NkJ2kYjQJ6V5p40k90w54aAJOpcIRcNd528_iVvM6GnkZ4kInGfgoHJ9Wnx-2LsSssYdx_2YF4Eu8JEGlOPPNh4HaDIJlQwOgYuDm/s320/DSCF5498.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The greenhouse - looking a little worse for wear after the Autumn storms</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the flowers in the bulb border. The hyacinths smell gorgeous - 15 in total.</td></tr>
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The bulbs are looking gorgeous. The tulips are yet to flower, and the little snakes-head fritillaries are slowly pushing their way out of the soil at the front. I'm going to edge this border off with bricks, to try and stop the grass creeping back, and also to make it look a little neater.<br />
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The sweet peas and "eating" peas (as I call them) are germinating in the greenhouse. I have planted loads of each, as peas are my favourite veg - the only veg I will eat willingly - and I can never get enough of the smell of sweet pea flowers.<br />
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However, the Mouse War has begun again, as like last year. Last spring, I rather naively left all my seedtrays of peas on the greenhouse floor. Within a matter of days, every single one had been dug up and eaten. So this year, I placed my pea seeds into the horticultural equivalent of Fort Knox. As you can see, nearly every one has germinated. My sunflower, sweetcorn and, most gut-wrenchingly, my dahlia seeds, were left to fend for themselves on the floor this time and the mouse has decided to snack on those instead.<br />
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So it is now gloves off. I've replanted my seeds and dug out every available piece of wire grid and netting I can find lying around on the plot, and created barriers no scheming little mouse can cross. It seems to have worked so far; but just to ensure the fellow doesn't get hungry enough to find a way past my defences, I've left a little peace offering:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUIpwPweD81VfY28HP8miIQZBpJ_wJ5tQYYXqDhQ1yIRmMaDbFIHxuSRiExsDczozfgXvjhAzxOGo3D367ErSM1HQbnmvEDWGHQK10bV5i79Rb4phUjqzSjIourPW3L5PpXdwVndVpiU-/s1600/DSCF5490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUIpwPweD81VfY28HP8miIQZBpJ_wJ5tQYYXqDhQ1yIRmMaDbFIHxuSRiExsDczozfgXvjhAzxOGo3D367ErSM1HQbnmvEDWGHQK10bV5i79Rb4phUjqzSjIourPW3L5PpXdwVndVpiU-/s320/DSCF5490.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dried mealworm bait</td></tr>
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Dried mealworms are on the menu tonight; the peanuts went down well earlier this week too. </div>
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Natalie 1: Mouse 1.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-80708774508033836752015-11-27T10:21:00.000-08:002015-11-27T10:21:20.462-08:00Hathersage and Stanage Edge via North Lees<br />
Hello all.<br />
<br />
I haven't been for a decent walk for a while now, and after a quick look at the weather forecast for Wednesday I decided a trip to Hathersage was in order. I looked up a few ideas for a walk and settled on what would be my first trip up Stanage Edge.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxslSXDVrCpfv1h2nFsIQ7jV5s1KSvr9lxexR7NHDRoLsJTxPDhTMo9w_oqgQvU5DetaW3e6CEYe-jPLzB7WSnd3Zd-m2k12x2KmnpyvxpnXQzySlPITWwtmmFWVTYwHjkz6BOePSanGLk/s1600/DSCF5075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxslSXDVrCpfv1h2nFsIQ7jV5s1KSvr9lxexR7NHDRoLsJTxPDhTMo9w_oqgQvU5DetaW3e6CEYe-jPLzB7WSnd3Zd-m2k12x2KmnpyvxpnXQzySlPITWwtmmFWVTYwHjkz6BOePSanGLk/s320/DSCF5075.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hood's Brook</td></tr>
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After packing enough clothes for an Arctic expedition, Sybil and I boarded the trains to our destination. The weather wasn't as cold as expected, however; and I soon began to feel toasty in my two jumpers, gloves, hat and fluffy socks. Layers of clothing were gradually shed as the miles started to add up. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZALNTjDIatIdZR2aXOOHbG9rYc2zZkCRNfuqVsbS2bbV1HZUazvrD7dfwd2C8BuqJSyUSAaWk23sHaiVxt0LkgXrmdA7BzLuJ_L1vIz7G7UN6XFSigNuEoeiARSogQW5AcpO40WdgG3M/s1600/DSCF5080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZALNTjDIatIdZR2aXOOHbG9rYc2zZkCRNfuqVsbS2bbV1HZUazvrD7dfwd2C8BuqJSyUSAaWk23sHaiVxt0LkgXrmdA7BzLuJ_L1vIz7G7UN6XFSigNuEoeiARSogQW5AcpO40WdgG3M/s320/DSCF5080.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First glimpse of Stanage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCz8LQleXu42YE6bq7MujvlqBp4K3Iu_L9Bki0l-ifmRW-ClaX4muKXMbkNfzhk18hJRUw2yM_2PMcHXEVdUqekfBVEwHXmTPmaGnOY0nEGuILQdH4kyWOUvswrPf4RQQFyBs1hQRnWs0/s1600/DSCF5084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsCz8LQleXu42YE6bq7MujvlqBp4K3Iu_L9Bki0l-ifmRW-ClaX4muKXMbkNfzhk18hJRUw2yM_2PMcHXEVdUqekfBVEwHXmTPmaGnOY0nEGuILQdH4kyWOUvswrPf4RQQFyBs1hQRnWs0/s320/DSCF5084.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Lees Hall</td></tr>
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We were soon walking past North Lees Hall, an impressive property now part of a sheep farm, offering refreshments for walkers in the summer months. Today though, the Hall was quiet and we headed over the field nearby to enter a short woodland path, filled with the trilling calls of blue, great and long-tailed tits flying from branch to branch searching for food. I took a five minute breather (it was all uphill, after all!) to stand back and enjoy their antics.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcApGnHYMdLnQwWdj-ntHw_NULTYCRXw2D61QT5b8zjK2qA1YUAdBhKpnA5NsfIbDbiYCgKk5mhGh2lQlUlBhIjpDpU7YU2ndq7CYHNAry0eQ8KPNzANN3A0pjUgc63JvVZ8LOyJn7KkN/s1600/DSCF5088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcApGnHYMdLnQwWdj-ntHw_NULTYCRXw2D61QT5b8zjK2qA1YUAdBhKpnA5NsfIbDbiYCgKk5mhGh2lQlUlBhIjpDpU7YU2ndq7CYHNAry0eQ8KPNzANN3A0pjUgc63JvVZ8LOyJn7KkN/s320/DSCF5088.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A wooded walk</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDQ0_MHCsi6Yfy0GieZzltwf6vvB2FE-1y4Xk0xjNXNHDBVoAF_gazMW0sV-n9-ERJ_jYOi-McfzbXEdBrpJ8xGss3NANkXD0CYnlifOMpd9YT_aeyDCccbyJ8bjyG2EuBZfRSubomV8Y/s1600/DSCF5101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDQ0_MHCsi6Yfy0GieZzltwf6vvB2FE-1y4Xk0xjNXNHDBVoAF_gazMW0sV-n9-ERJ_jYOi-McfzbXEdBrpJ8xGss3NANkXD0CYnlifOMpd9YT_aeyDCccbyJ8bjyG2EuBZfRSubomV8Y/s320/DSCF5101.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting patiently</td></tr>
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Soon the climbing became more intense as we joined the flagstone path to the top of Stanage. Every now and then I would stop to catch my breath and look back to see a rather strange procession of mattresses snaking their way up the path behind me. It was only when they caught up to us, which wasn't hard given how unfit I am, that I saw they were strapped to the back of people who were obviously going to climb the rock face. Rather them than me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrUVR5NBhEbSrIQeS-Ywp3dbWXPcinFpptTbgq0-t_Uk0Cl3RGp9hP5yOdLbE527T28EazYPfP_ygKYSafu7vhsVPf67w1Int4YwN7vx5ohMbmPotKtJ2IEhVifRA0jLxQaaiSLg8VJcP/s1600/DSCF5135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFrUVR5NBhEbSrIQeS-Ywp3dbWXPcinFpptTbgq0-t_Uk0Cl3RGp9hP5yOdLbE527T28EazYPfP_ygKYSafu7vhsVPf67w1Int4YwN7vx5ohMbmPotKtJ2IEhVifRA0jLxQaaiSLg8VJcP/s320/DSCF5135.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crazy mutt</td></tr>
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We finally reached the top and sat down to admire the views and have a bite to eat. The shed clothes quickly began making their way back on as the air grew chilly now we were more exposed to the wind; even Sybil sat close to my left side, using me as a windbreak.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju6xd5WOXfjm3E2QfquEwdAuCy77Ja8GrYIalTrPb3XwkOZgpY-UnQRHKbav8D1nBThyphenhyphenH82JpcbzIMAM-tNASmN1wwXQlPjcO3ei_vt3qna1Xqmh-CH2p9NMwvVSGNJLLxteZM_byenwew/s1600/DSCF5175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju6xd5WOXfjm3E2QfquEwdAuCy77Ja8GrYIalTrPb3XwkOZgpY-UnQRHKbav8D1nBThyphenhyphenH82JpcbzIMAM-tNASmN1wwXQlPjcO3ei_vt3qna1Xqmh-CH2p9NMwvVSGNJLLxteZM_byenwew/s320/DSCF5175.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posing puppy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7FyRXIyH8DUWZQKl0vK2ZpGlEHe4JctDHkWIK3GcmZGonhFbN3rAbegrIx_u6HcP_TY5V4cmc3YLCrylTkNakyRQSEFWwpgVEz94uM7CNLbeHRyq9M96d_ahZQ4_xGcaCs-SzRVSygJd6/s1600/DSCF5165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7FyRXIyH8DUWZQKl0vK2ZpGlEHe4JctDHkWIK3GcmZGonhFbN3rAbegrIx_u6HcP_TY5V4cmc3YLCrylTkNakyRQSEFWwpgVEz94uM7CNLbeHRyq9M96d_ahZQ4_xGcaCs-SzRVSygJd6/s320/DSCF5165.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gateway to adventure</td></tr>
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No wonder Stanage Edge is such a popular location. To one side you have sweeping views across the Hope Valley, towards Lose Hill and Kinder Scout in the distance and on the other side there is the vast expanse of moorland between the national park and Sheffield.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjlFCph1-XrCuUprtxBXLdHxBxhuWzWcqukz5Fx_sCcME26Mm7NtOUUlaPiqTTlN-m31ZNGmb6LWbTJhaEKHvf9-y2bUEecD3Rywfcu4-rlSQ0OQcdsY6t58x1Exq5NijXdkTSXgVppXe/s1600/DSCF5197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjlFCph1-XrCuUprtxBXLdHxBxhuWzWcqukz5Fx_sCcME26Mm7NtOUUlaPiqTTlN-m31ZNGmb6LWbTJhaEKHvf9-y2bUEecD3Rywfcu4-rlSQ0OQcdsY6t58x1Exq5NijXdkTSXgVppXe/s320/DSCF5197.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surveying her Kingdom</td></tr>
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Sybil was thoroughly enjoying her freedom now the lambing and nesting season were over. She could pick out which of the fellow hikers we passed had a soft spot for dogs and would head straight over for the obligatory fuss. She stayed well away from the edge of the cliff, and once ventured over the remains of the drystone wall onto the Hallam Moors, flushing from the long grass two red grouse who had fortunately survived the shooting season.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH72LsyekeWVGbQkQM6CJ6E-jj-3eBH4hEhhrPk-12lXrMTNegaRYgB2FZR89KGpkyo95i4Z-bKC5TTjMpfuVS9c1IRv9NyH5ECUSyPckO0vh7GVXcaPlJoqiLCJ5SUsKpEGj_z0pouCpW/s1600/DSCF5210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH72LsyekeWVGbQkQM6CJ6E-jj-3eBH4hEhhrPk-12lXrMTNegaRYgB2FZR89KGpkyo95i4Z-bKC5TTjMpfuVS9c1IRv9NyH5ECUSyPckO0vh7GVXcaPlJoqiLCJ5SUsKpEGj_z0pouCpW/s320/DSCF5210.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farewell Stanage Edge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8Faq689iMeM5fklI7ek_5wl8DUJdBLp1-HOylzKXHAzEUlP4JYPjlu8NkV0UTCPtOLX2WuqLD4tzCJdo4VPfOzwuClD7bBdxAXG-zF2_3lLgixLxXPHhfbhmnbNymGPdC4ah3COjhg9s/s1600/DSCF5231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB8Faq689iMeM5fklI7ek_5wl8DUJdBLp1-HOylzKXHAzEUlP4JYPjlu8NkV0UTCPtOLX2WuqLD4tzCJdo4VPfOzwuClD7bBdxAXG-zF2_3lLgixLxXPHhfbhmnbNymGPdC4ah3COjhg9s/s320/DSCF5231.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S Michael's Church</td></tr>
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All too soon we were leaving the Edge and heading down onto the road, back towards the village. Trudging through some muddy fields, Sybil enjoyed her last taste of freedom before we reached the church where Little John was allegedly buried.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7wldqjM5HLl_aG9JqT2sV24m0_11j1tQVu4dbS3c2CWLUxlyTQ-rhzm6oNCy1aZ3Ah2O5l4iLNuZk-im-9xalNdt4btCoj9Fk1sRSvfnr2PqwDEzr32AqyTAGy5gLrS4AmePnn0d3IXa/s1600/DSCF5234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7wldqjM5HLl_aG9JqT2sV24m0_11j1tQVu4dbS3c2CWLUxlyTQ-rhzm6oNCy1aZ3Ah2O5l4iLNuZk-im-9xalNdt4btCoj9Fk1sRSvfnr2PqwDEzr32AqyTAGy5gLrS4AmePnn0d3IXa/s320/DSCF5234.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here lies buried Little John</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Z-sNRxc4f3TRTetS0YY5GO4zMAblSNS9iTzoF3W32VqmVGV-mJuVfLf-MBRzXCky7o9B4JoG7-Lg6AwqmwB2V2vn3S4SNc1DekcnMdJ2aB2OGzPPxup7jMCf5U4uhamq0Mxr_ALJKFr4/s1600/DSCF5237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Z-sNRxc4f3TRTetS0YY5GO4zMAblSNS9iTzoF3W32VqmVGV-mJuVfLf-MBRzXCky7o9B4JoG7-Lg6AwqmwB2V2vn3S4SNc1DekcnMdJ2aB2OGzPPxup7jMCf5U4uhamq0Mxr_ALJKFr4/s320/DSCF5237.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We hightailed it down Hathersage's main street and managed to make the 13.46 train home. And to think concerned about finishing the walk before dark.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCghFybkyGWdXX61OXPZJM6OJejTI1oDec57rzRyM_HF87nRFzwiMimSRtxEiGBnuCsU4pv1qolUe3a2jOznBJmZOCqIafEm0JZbRZj-sMPSLxDLvgzs5NC3ggKWpKtr6t4_nIWNlZO77/s1600/DSCF5238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCghFybkyGWdXX61OXPZJM6OJejTI1oDec57rzRyM_HF87nRFzwiMimSRtxEiGBnuCsU4pv1qolUe3a2jOznBJmZOCqIafEm0JZbRZj-sMPSLxDLvgzs5NC3ggKWpKtr6t4_nIWNlZO77/s320/DSCF5238.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-21005809436073235802015-08-24T14:16:00.000-07:002015-08-24T14:16:11.240-07:00Storm clouds over Plot 23<br />
Summer is starting to wind down and the nights are closing in fast. Evenings are my favourite time of the day to spend at the allotment; I will usually get down there for about 5 or 6pm and stay until it begins to get dark. It's a satisfying way to wrap up the day, and the cooler temperatures at this time makes it easier to do any jobs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9LQDuThja8hh44KtT8j-a1CkHcHtwQT3fg1wmzHtXmSsgo6Vt-x4Si48PhIl3zd2Ov59S1sfi7yBiyYbUF8Jshz8byBDbVDoRWBcoqkMDJcdwy-sscSRtPSODWst1kaHSlLwK37dtG1r/s1600/DSCF4434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9LQDuThja8hh44KtT8j-a1CkHcHtwQT3fg1wmzHtXmSsgo6Vt-x4Si48PhIl3zd2Ov59S1sfi7yBiyYbUF8Jshz8byBDbVDoRWBcoqkMDJcdwy-sscSRtPSODWst1kaHSlLwK37dtG1r/s320/DSCF4434.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Larkspur</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj08aUvwbWFgE2pVyeZtGxH5DPxuk8cGbZF8bLmXhX-DPEmMZB1lCoIbetu3KG5nqZ0qB2jRFhQY1JLGMH-l2nIgZp40-1pEcTUxyKaNeFY-J1Hd29Js0Z8hVmWfb2KbrLyfyCPbxGCWxu-/s1600/DSCF4437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj08aUvwbWFgE2pVyeZtGxH5DPxuk8cGbZF8bLmXhX-DPEmMZB1lCoIbetu3KG5nqZ0qB2jRFhQY1JLGMH-l2nIgZp40-1pEcTUxyKaNeFY-J1Hd29Js0Z8hVmWfb2KbrLyfyCPbxGCWxu-/s320/DSCF4437.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet pea</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The flowers are starting to look a little tatty around the edges now. I'm still deadheading my cornflowers and cutting sweet peas, but less and less flowers are coming back each time. It will soon be time to collect seeds and tidy up the borders, ready for the colder months ahead.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZK_7zgQoDZ7C9iYUC3LRg6d-fAubPFoh8Ca9AAhtzucp1AG0h98-ax-XifNVAJ8gJoasNosyPL75XxvP6HNomqdNsvIm8zNs2Ghpv-Q6jFCyepc0it_ywlMSy34PWhMWh-xSm0ZRVYl6/s1600/DSCF4438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZK_7zgQoDZ7C9iYUC3LRg6d-fAubPFoh8Ca9AAhtzucp1AG0h98-ax-XifNVAJ8gJoasNosyPL75XxvP6HNomqdNsvIm8zNs2Ghpv-Q6jFCyepc0it_ywlMSy34PWhMWh-xSm0ZRVYl6/s320/DSCF4438.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby Red</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbVFPIrnks37fqfURxW30O0eDWukJ2exUymnO2Ktb_Ik1cwUmM7OzDw9lH7PhuyN0vH2kp0ME5aBTlEuv18wFlEVaa-FWfhjO9p5QWvKsLSWd6Fde8vHs3okm4YTnjZrSLAGXtCuYLrsn/s1600/DSCF4441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbVFPIrnks37fqfURxW30O0eDWukJ2exUymnO2Ktb_Ik1cwUmM7OzDw9lH7PhuyN0vH2kp0ME5aBTlEuv18wFlEVaa-FWfhjO9p5QWvKsLSWd6Fde8vHs3okm4YTnjZrSLAGXtCuYLrsn/s320/DSCF4441.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tall Lemon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSyWbFbNb2806xA2dRJYIqP_sTMzp01Vw4VfJg1gHoC4jKwKokz0aTX18B8vX-FtX0Pzyejt5koiTyML5PuvrirJzzzhAYz2dhazHnGubBSBwcmLlrwYbBDgzlUOVY1a1_Ln8E4uWWusL/s1600/DSCF4445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSyWbFbNb2806xA2dRJYIqP_sTMzp01Vw4VfJg1gHoC4jKwKokz0aTX18B8vX-FtX0Pzyejt5koiTyML5PuvrirJzzzhAYz2dhazHnGubBSBwcmLlrwYbBDgzlUOVY1a1_Ln8E4uWWusL/s320/DSCF4445.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bumblebee on Tall Lemon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R2jbLEFlk4CBGGNXIrhSDpQmKweDscp4gO6g0QUsVDvPhVjq-exKnqa9mbuu_sU31lfHFflIX6sqIhOrOpsvhiPf-6F1FPhFWfcw9JmJfOdPEGe3-yIE4gqNY_afAxhCMGrGElgaWafs/s1600/DSCF4451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-R2jbLEFlk4CBGGNXIrhSDpQmKweDscp4gO6g0QUsVDvPhVjq-exKnqa9mbuu_sU31lfHFflIX6sqIhOrOpsvhiPf-6F1FPhFWfcw9JmJfOdPEGe3-yIE4gqNY_afAxhCMGrGElgaWafs/s320/DSCF4451.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby Red</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The sunflowers had a bit of a late start in life, as I took my time digging over the beds, so they are not as tall as I would have liked. The flowerheads have finally opened, and they are delightful to sit next to and look at. The bees adore them too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9p5dRU0JvOh0Z7LtnVq2oZ5dn2R-4UemomewwO0EjlVRaelvkHHAthvMSdLPbnXIgQIr4fjiivfeJYQfm6u4CzTScxR1hpxVY6370eoApA85gMVT3omXnONkiYKDmYqPKRPlEkDJeQtq/s1600/DSCF4454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9p5dRU0JvOh0Z7LtnVq2oZ5dn2R-4UemomewwO0EjlVRaelvkHHAthvMSdLPbnXIgQIr4fjiivfeJYQfm6u4CzTScxR1hpxVY6370eoApA85gMVT3omXnONkiYKDmYqPKRPlEkDJeQtq/s320/DSCF4454.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Runner beans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have more runner beans than I can possibly use, and my efforts to palm some off on friends and family are failing miserably. Not many people seem to like runner beans; shame they are so easy to grow!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMUfnTQeXNtmZG52KJ2McZOZQNFBefXoW4JyMqfxHNsbfOQ9I20uHXzMkMsSh26T2s-CgR6RkvO0doOcsuES06TlqcQtn5B-A81YPn1amVTz9eU8BdOLMXY2pk6e2GrdxG8_-Uo1zP_6D/s1600/DSCF4455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMUfnTQeXNtmZG52KJ2McZOZQNFBefXoW4JyMqfxHNsbfOQ9I20uHXzMkMsSh26T2s-CgR6RkvO0doOcsuES06TlqcQtn5B-A81YPn1amVTz9eU8BdOLMXY2pk6e2GrdxG8_-Uo1zP_6D/s320/DSCF4455.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squash bed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRcbD7Gnf9wseQ91Ex45wg8ciypmhetnhwVkaJXd3P1IcK5-ag-uvQQLxPwjws2kpLLvhTW6Nuyi2yWQMy4PdPBLi1FLiN-tfa0YGuaTVb9j-DEab2G1zQ4NOJRyEN-E1xJkMAkVhNjQ-/s1600/DSCF4461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRcbD7Gnf9wseQ91Ex45wg8ciypmhetnhwVkaJXd3P1IcK5-ag-uvQQLxPwjws2kpLLvhTW6Nuyi2yWQMy4PdPBLi1FLiN-tfa0YGuaTVb9j-DEab2G1zQ4NOJRyEN-E1xJkMAkVhNjQ-/s320/DSCF4461.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Pam pumpkin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAFzSDFvjihCTC7kebaqz651oechbd0i7IRHxGGgmOPW3lgYXtzkkzJ_IxMhl5R8jsTnVUmcq6XJW6yxt_pQFhQYe4pT5nhzEfjtA7rYkS_J576EVnl5qMt1A3ofRX53NxV5fUTv4bgly/s1600/DSCF4467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiAFzSDFvjihCTC7kebaqz651oechbd0i7IRHxGGgmOPW3lgYXtzkkzJ_IxMhl5R8jsTnVUmcq6XJW6yxt_pQFhQYe4pT5nhzEfjtA7rYkS_J576EVnl5qMt1A3ofRX53NxV5fUTv4bgly/s320/DSCF4467.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumpkin and squash</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The pumpkins and squash seem to be maturing nicely; having never grown them before, I wasn't sure what to expect. Yet plenty of compost and watering seems to be doing the trick.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtMeqkZzbJ4iuiLdtOXw9Am-hMHstWgAe8WoivXiiTXqvO7PNCI9-lUp2BdwGsqaqQdNJ3PJkAWh8TSOv5FJTSpMLAXMcpFBAONnkQzFrc7fiOt5VcK7TBzWngzmHwVqkH2KQo8GxGoiN/s1600/DSCF4460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtMeqkZzbJ4iuiLdtOXw9Am-hMHstWgAe8WoivXiiTXqvO7PNCI9-lUp2BdwGsqaqQdNJ3PJkAWh8TSOv5FJTSpMLAXMcpFBAONnkQzFrc7fiOt5VcK7TBzWngzmHwVqkH2KQo8GxGoiN/s320/DSCF4460.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor tomatoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZW8GqGhO32S9ehWul3mpiYldzn8b5fYpiGDWoNbgLOjBjBOSEZejfe8ZRIs5LJuWffa7lcDdrINDFLrRbTQdO0Py36DKgjAbV1Nazau2bpEI2pZsFNPy-huCj0RcQT1OKmUrmpybBD-zd/s1600/DSCF4458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZW8GqGhO32S9ehWul3mpiYldzn8b5fYpiGDWoNbgLOjBjBOSEZejfe8ZRIs5LJuWffa7lcDdrINDFLrRbTQdO0Py36DKgjAbV1Nazau2bpEI2pZsFNPy-huCj0RcQT1OKmUrmpybBD-zd/s320/DSCF4458.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marigold</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5LN2Nn28h_RIagKoP51bC1bK50R_lnJs7YKCwF-6UEL0ZfTnVcms4ejxR_s0NR-7nmHBiY4sL94rOcXC19mkXUe6m1TOVORc64mDWIdYlvE-RTV8I6KTH4m4Lef1sVNIqNAvFNkU3J0U/s1600/DSCF4463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5LN2Nn28h_RIagKoP51bC1bK50R_lnJs7YKCwF-6UEL0ZfTnVcms4ejxR_s0NR-7nmHBiY4sL94rOcXC19mkXUe6m1TOVORc64mDWIdYlvE-RTV8I6KTH4m4Lef1sVNIqNAvFNkU3J0U/s320/DSCF4463.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinnabar moth caterpillar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The outdoor tomatoes have started to ripen. I have been drowning in tomatoes for weeks now, giving bagfuls away to family and friends. These outdoor ones are a variety called Tigrella; quite attractive-looking with green stripes on the fruit.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GNBRNtLWbvjB4it8uxs4iZ_-5_C3RhAIwFnH-cTAHnTRR8RTzeXAwTw2lSENgUgndRPM7enz_rtWfq34Jv5r7Qo24QhYSgNQhWm_XNWxyaFd8LU2dC85OHPjY2zOIb7y3-1XCu1LgoCk/s1600/DSCF4466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6GNBRNtLWbvjB4it8uxs4iZ_-5_C3RhAIwFnH-cTAHnTRR8RTzeXAwTw2lSENgUgndRPM7enz_rtWfq34Jv5r7Qo24QhYSgNQhWm_XNWxyaFd8LU2dC85OHPjY2zOIb7y3-1XCu1LgoCk/s320/DSCF4466.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabbage bed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxIqAuS1F9KWeQLo3eas7WQRyvE75DSkaK08eyLrGJJ6rJxTxPavy4LXf8UL4iNroqrWvQAsyVR5OnWMuQi9ohgYp-Uq4l1qD1Ja-OpmyRj9y83LPWtXAxbn1F73a2KPYAhXbLqv33BrS/s1600/DSCF4473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhxIqAuS1F9KWeQLo3eas7WQRyvE75DSkaK08eyLrGJJ6rJxTxPavy4LXf8UL4iNroqrWvQAsyVR5OnWMuQi9ohgYp-Uq4l1qD1Ja-OpmyRj9y83LPWtXAxbn1F73a2KPYAhXbLqv33BrS/s320/DSCF4473.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiding amongst the rhubarb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Quite a few weeds have rather annoyingly snuck in under the cabbage netting, despite digging and weeding the bed for two weeks before transplanting the seedlings and putting the cage up. Never mind; at least the plants are nice and healthy looking, and caterpillar free!<br />
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Shortly after snapping these pictures, myself and the canine had to retreat to the greenhouse to dodge a huge downpour. I was tidying up the pea supports when I glanced up and noticed an ominous black cloud was dominating the sky. Sybil needed no encouragement to retreat to shelter, and we stood and waited until the worst of it was over. Between showers, I managed to snap the following photos:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvGSJTYa8MUh-Cg6AhHerf7O8Lamtuyv8ucnEegsaouPwfJVLAnSMmmIHDjmt5B6WJ-gjvKIxUIPr0RruxKCAs4NRKMVQHo6ZMG7tZjoGVj81xpg7seePPe8UVgo0ZRrCcVmJIME9vIGk/s1600/DSCF4484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvGSJTYa8MUh-Cg6AhHerf7O8Lamtuyv8ucnEegsaouPwfJVLAnSMmmIHDjmt5B6WJ-gjvKIxUIPr0RruxKCAs4NRKMVQHo6ZMG7tZjoGVj81xpg7seePPe8UVgo0ZRrCcVmJIME9vIGk/s320/DSCF4484.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhswwoI6UW3Y8xnXBEg7uyTdYoB6xG0dEcLeHBTOJ6Sx4n0pWidSv-JTLF8KSIRe2U-odLbLL-0GFLj7rw_nRVAHEL09znrHPB7_g2rrGBtTLpMfGBK6ZlJcJIW88nIon_St4-G9ZsQSZil/s1600/DSCF4490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhswwoI6UW3Y8xnXBEg7uyTdYoB6xG0dEcLeHBTOJ6Sx4n0pWidSv-JTLF8KSIRe2U-odLbLL-0GFLj7rw_nRVAHEL09znrHPB7_g2rrGBtTLpMfGBK6ZlJcJIW88nIon_St4-G9ZsQSZil/s320/DSCF4490.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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There were the beginnings of a glorious sunset in the west, whilst to the east the storm was still moving off, leaving a rainbow in its wake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKarogxnXVtal_JTL5COcdRxSdZ8mDcICubaRJMO09oyx8-ZbGPfI3tax-HwTMlDbJdyMw65PnZeLYvWBoZLeILh5gLd35W4yrFW3cr3cRXIgnblYXzFqEZg2nEL6Rt5kepgjAcUvOGyhh/s1600/DSCF4493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKarogxnXVtal_JTL5COcdRxSdZ8mDcICubaRJMO09oyx8-ZbGPfI3tax-HwTMlDbJdyMw65PnZeLYvWBoZLeILh5gLd35W4yrFW3cr3cRXIgnblYXzFqEZg2nEL6Rt5kepgjAcUvOGyhh/s320/DSCF4493.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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At one point lightening lit up the whole sky, sending Sybil running to the gate just as thunder boomed in the distance. This storm was no match for my collie-cross, and retreated to the other side of Rotherham as Sybil ran back to my side, victorious and proud. <br />
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With the evening drawing to a close, we set off home across the fields despite the rain trying to hold on. After all, someone once said life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain. We may not have been dancing, but it was fantastic to see a display of nature like this.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My water-phobic collie-cross</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-87628415551825425302015-08-18T09:02:00.000-07:002015-08-18T09:02:12.880-07:00Grindleford station to Dore and Totley station<br />
My first decent walk in a while was one I have done before, but at the wrong time of the year to see the heather in bloom. I enjoyed this walk the first time and it isn't too strenuous; indeed a nice introduction to get back into walking in the Peak District.<br />
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The walk begins in the delightful area I know as Padley Gorge. Mossy stones, ferns and the sound of Burbage Brook below to the right accompany us through the wood. At times it is like being in a rainforest, as the air is unbelievably humid and the sweat is soon streaming down my face. I pause to take a break as Sybil splashes in the stream below. A sneaky Snickers bar makes up for a missed breakfast and we continue on our way, soon reaching the open moorland near the Longshaw Estate.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too busy looking for squirrels to pose for a photo</td></tr>
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Carl Wark and Higger Tor are visible in the distance, with swathes of purple heather dominating the view. It's the first time I've seen heather in flower so I stop to admire the view whilst Sybil makes friends with a Border Terrier.<br />
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The Burbage Brook is calmer here, with less waterfalls over the flat ground. We head towards the road, ignoring the temptation of the ice-cream van parked nearby, and cross over, following the wide path through more woodland towards Longshaw Lodge.<br />
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There are several sheep near the Lodge, so it's back on the lead for Sybil until we double back behind the Lodge and onto more open moorland. The views are fantastic to our right, but the rain is closing in so we head to Little John's Well and climb the steps to the road, where we cross over and get to my favourite part of the walk, the expansive moorland of Totley Moss.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Violet Ground Beetle</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Totley tunnel shaft</td></tr>
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A ground beetle wanders across my path, and I pause to have a look. It is only after reading about them on the internet that I discover they can actually give a sharp nip, so I'm glad the one I handled seemed docile! <br />
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We pass the Totley tunnel airshaft and tramp across the moor, a fantastic sense of isolation creeping in as the moorland closes in. Sybil is having a great time, bounding ahead yet frequently stopping to check I am following her.<br />
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The heather becomes more and more colourful as we head along the track. As Sheffield becomes visible on the skyline, almost every flower is open on each plant and the ground is a deep, rich purple colour.<br />
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We begin to descend, the track eventually becoming a road as we leave our temporary solitude behind and re-join civilisation. We pass horses and sheep in the fields to our right, then march along lonely roads until we eventually reach a stile that takes us by a small stream. On the footpath I notice a dead mole, not the most pleasant sight, yet interesting to see. You can really appreciate that those spade-like hands were made for digging:<br />
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Sybil gets her last taste of freedom for the day while I sit on a bench and reflect on our days' walk. Despite her normal lack of love for anything wet, she reaches for her inner Labrador and has a play on the weir. <br />
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All that is left now is a long road slog back to the train station. The walk seems longer than last time and just as I'm about to check we haven't walked past it, a sign appears and we gratefully slink into the station shelter, with half an hour to wait and recover.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-15433184329605160532015-07-25T16:53:00.002-07:002015-07-26T07:21:38.185-07:00Tales from the allotment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi everyone. It's been a while since my last blog post, and Sybil and I haven't been on many decent walks lately due to a badly sprained foot (mine, this time). I thought I would post some photos of my allotment instead.<br />
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My sweet peas have been doing fairly well. I collected the seeds from last years plants, as I grew those in my Mum's garden and they have sentimental value to me. They smell gorgeous, and I've been cutting them as often as possible so they keep flowering.<br />
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Please excuse the black ring around some of the photos; today was the first time I have used my conversion macro lens and I'm still getting to grips with it. This isn't macro photography by any means, just an hour pointing and shooting.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet peas</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feminine touches in the greenhouse</td></tr>
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The tomatoes are doing well. I've had a fair few fruits off the plants already, and spend many afternoons chomping away on raw peas and tomatoes on the allotment.<br />
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A new flower for me is the nasturtium. I've never grown these before, but in spring I threw a few seeds down on the border by the gate, and this happened:<br />
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The flowers are so pretty, and the bees love them. <br />
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The runner beans are growing well. They have grown up the canes so fast, and each plant is packed with red flowers, but today I noticed my first actual bean.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proud moment</td></tr>
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I also have my first rose in bloom; eventually I am hoping the plant will trail over my gate.<br />
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There were two grape vines in the greenhouse when I took the plot over. They have come back to life and are now producing hundreds of grapes:<br />
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I bought several buddleia bushes to attract butterflies and bees, and surprisingly, although tiny, one of them has flowered already this year:<br />
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The flowerhead looks small and fluffy from a distance, but it is actually made up of hundreds of tiny pink flowers. </div>
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Another set of flowers I'm pleased with, considering my lack of green fingers, are my poached egg plants. Yet another packet of seeds that I threw on a border and, to be honest, didn't expect much from:<br />
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They are really pretty flowers, and another one that is popular with the bees. But the most popular by far has to be the blue cornflowers by the pond. The bees love them, and I am constantly deadheading the flowers to keep them going as long as possible.<br />
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Another "first" for me is managing to grow marigolds from seeds. These are French petit, and produce lovely orange and yellowish flowers. I got up close and personal with them today, and saw them from a closer perspective:<br />
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I've planted these around my outside tomato plants, as they are a good companion plant (or so the books say).<br />
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The allotment is far from finished, as such as allotments ever are, as only half of the plot is dug over. My sprained foot means I probably won't get any more beds dug this summer, but by the autumn I hope to have gotten a good move on. It's still a long way from the overgrown mess it was when I first took it on. <br />
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Keep popping back; I will hopefully have a good walk written up soon. The summer has been nice and mild so far, great for long walks with Sybil as neither of us like too much heat.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-2826809374017036432015-06-29T11:05:00.000-07:002015-06-29T11:05:47.393-07:00Bempton Cliffs, with a dash of rockpooling<br />
On Sunday the 7th of June, I visited Bempton Cliffs again. This is a hugely popular place for birdwatchers, unsurprisingly, as during the summer months the cliffs are packed with thousands of seabirds. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hcizG9_y9aie8rzYVEot3cEQBIsk1ZoyTQZnPdgcwLu6c9oRr0JqIT6LZYxC1QNURStuvVTsHDTJ1N2DQU9O5jXuHA4pD1ieP5Cp1eYeu82C8OvAZ7uPcdGGQjdbK5TdDOL8wWooiHgV/s1600/S0513179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hcizG9_y9aie8rzYVEot3cEQBIsk1ZoyTQZnPdgcwLu6c9oRr0JqIT6LZYxC1QNURStuvVTsHDTJ1N2DQU9O5jXuHA4pD1ieP5Cp1eYeu82C8OvAZ7uPcdGGQjdbK5TdDOL8wWooiHgV/s320/S0513179.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gannet</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gannet</td></tr>
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The most obvious, and in my opinion the most impressive of these, is the gannet, <em>Morus bassanus</em>. With a two metre wingspan, these huge birds are the first ones my eye is drawn to as they soar below the cliff face. Their song, if you can call it that, is a series of quick, quite harsh, monotonous notes strung together; a constant soundtrack to my walk along the clifftop.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kittiwake</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kittiwake</td></tr>
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The next bird I'm aware of, by hearing it at first rather than seeing it, is the rather delicate-looking kittiwake, <em>Rissa tridactyla</em>. Its gentle features give you the idea that this is not a gull that would swoop down and steal your ice-cream. Its' common name comes from the sound of its' call. Listen closely and you would indeed be convinced it is shouting out "kittiwake, kittiwake!" Easily one of my favourite birds to see on the cliffs.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Razorbill</td></tr>
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Another bird you are likely to see at Bempton is the Razorbill, <em>Alca torda</em>. One of our Northern "penguins", it has a large bill that distinguishes it from a close relative the guillemot, <em>Uria aalge</em>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridled guillemot</td></tr>
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The photo above shows a bridled guillemot, which is one of the forms the birds shows. The bridled form varies from the normal by having a white eye ring with a white stripe behind it. A very pretty bird.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fulmar</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fulmar pair</td></tr>
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Now for one of my absolute favourite birds. I first saw the fulmar, <em>Fulmarus glacialis</em>, when watching an old episode of Wildlife SOS as a teenager. I took to them immediately and really wanted to see one. There were a pair on the cliffs two years ago when I first visited Bempton Cliffs, but this year they seemed to be everywhere. I'm not sure if it's the look of wisdom about their faces; the fact that they are related to the albatrosses; the interesting and ingenious tube on their bills that allows them to excrete salt; or that they can deter intruders by spitting a disgusting-smelling concoction at them. Either way, they deserve to be admired and appreciated.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpAlhfUnIJ0V8E7j2eWvODSLk2MctBotUVe_FEmnLU2JEeZXDtzKNhe3CfDOTyW6_Rp5P7iHiWn_tt-I_99gxMyG7OUzGoEXuQcjfAxQD-rI7Z8e4Ibb6o7Sg2JrQfF0ewwqAL3TC98q4/s1600/S0403143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOpAlhfUnIJ0V8E7j2eWvODSLk2MctBotUVe_FEmnLU2JEeZXDtzKNhe3CfDOTyW6_Rp5P7iHiWn_tt-I_99gxMyG7OUzGoEXuQcjfAxQD-rI7Z8e4Ibb6o7Sg2JrQfF0ewwqAL3TC98q4/s320/S0403143.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puffin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhNvcUUqCHVw7MMZZar-C-4ecIV4UtPYfKo1NeQBsyFRRlHzC-7Bf5-N22tS2WFu17DyLi08O1mihtKIlMtP7_hZyAbUM-axQOSfUWEC1GHpjwItJHxUdlvL-MBWKIGkABjlJqqjEa7TE/s1600/S0913352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhNvcUUqCHVw7MMZZar-C-4ecIV4UtPYfKo1NeQBsyFRRlHzC-7Bf5-N22tS2WFu17DyLi08O1mihtKIlMtP7_hZyAbUM-axQOSfUWEC1GHpjwItJHxUdlvL-MBWKIGkABjlJqqjEa7TE/s320/S0913352.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puffin on a nest</td></tr>
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Many peoples' main reason for visiting the cliffs is to see a puffin, <em>Fratercula arctica</em>. You are pretty much guaranteed to see the other species during the summer months, but it takes some searching (or a friendly fellow birder) to find a puffin. I saw four swimming on the sea below; from that distance, they look only slightly different from the guillemots and razorbills, and you need a keen eye to pick out their white cheeks. <br />
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My best encounter of the day was when I was watching gannets soaring close by, when a puffin actually flew right over my head. I got rather excited and pointed towards it, only to realise I was on my own and must have looked rather strange. Never mind.<br />
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Near the end of the day, I was standing near a group of people who were pointing their ridiculously large camera lenses (yes, OK, I am a little jealous) toward an opening in the cliff face. I followed with my binoculars to realise inside was a puffin on a nest. They nest in burrows, so obviously this pair had thought this an ideal place to raise their chick. I tried to take a few photos, difficult when the little cave was so dark, but I couldn't stay long as the centre was closing and my train would soon be due.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQS1b0DqoDu25eYJQh_2SD6N9nF-5GzSww7UTgrhATm5cVtd4f2TiNqO9nUn0k2B-WilFCUueCC96Kkgt9fYFZQRJovu6ulgM0dRVLs55UgEeL3rxX_yiywLcztvPnQsyrOGB1wlJiCZn/s1600/DSCF3240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQS1b0DqoDu25eYJQh_2SD6N9nF-5GzSww7UTgrhATm5cVtd4f2TiNqO9nUn0k2B-WilFCUueCC96Kkgt9fYFZQRJovu6ulgM0dRVLs55UgEeL3rxX_yiywLcztvPnQsyrOGB1wlJiCZn/s320/DSCF3240.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thornwick Bay</td></tr>
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Before I found the puffin on her nest, I decided to leave the crowded cliffs and have a walk down towards Flamborough on my own. It turned out to be a longer walk than I was expecting, due to the rambling cliffside paths, and I never managed to reach the lighthouse; nonetheless, it was just as well I didn't, as I discovered the little gem of Thornwick Bay.<br />
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The rocky shore was perfect for a spot of rockpooling, which I haven't done since I was on a college trip. I have read numerous books about the creatures that dwell in them, and have always wanted to have a go on my own, so this was the perfect chance. It may have looked slightly odd; a woman in her mid-twenties delving into each pool with more enthusiasm than a child with a fishing net, but I didn't care.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQr3B-n3kWjaoxrPWZ7ZsSa3PJpZFVl-q9SctYfpglJnQkReSh1gw_GhrYgWl9cUdxmMwmaLYs3hJgKfpjf4gusspoqR7lvp-xZZ20d4CHN1L7F5YpJpd8VJ-E6b3GCNeH51caGVWWEdc/s1600/DSCF3232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQr3B-n3kWjaoxrPWZ7ZsSa3PJpZFVl-q9SctYfpglJnQkReSh1gw_GhrYgWl9cUdxmMwmaLYs3hJgKfpjf4gusspoqR7lvp-xZZ20d4CHN1L7F5YpJpd8VJ-E6b3GCNeH51caGVWWEdc/s320/DSCF3232.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Young shore crab</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAwVJC9xh26XELuPtPxXuNIk8rN2TrjUU92WcK1mnzd8v_LwTkcSCzlBO_nVGwdYFUQAcX9YYHa9w630CJMU0t_dVhg22F35FRrXY2ksdlGj3jWpF1HLa0y5-R7ErD_7q5xGCRjaX4yWr/s1600/DSCF3236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYAwVJC9xh26XELuPtPxXuNIk8rN2TrjUU92WcK1mnzd8v_LwTkcSCzlBO_nVGwdYFUQAcX9YYHa9w630CJMU0t_dVhg22F35FRrXY2ksdlGj3jWpF1HLa0y5-R7ErD_7q5xGCRjaX4yWr/s320/DSCF3236.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Common periwinkle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rD672DvcpMcs5P8V5ffN0bV2zazAWEjwz8lr3t8Vr-p05OPnQTMjyqRy8N0P0nYE07Rka-NrmWYEABLyimR2npHt-0mgaQ_nxvnQXLQRLvQ_u63oe0LbQNCDHoFOyaSiSme1OySNisSx/s1600/DSCF3238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8rD672DvcpMcs5P8V5ffN0bV2zazAWEjwz8lr3t8Vr-p05OPnQTMjyqRy8N0P0nYE07Rka-NrmWYEABLyimR2npHt-0mgaQ_nxvnQXLQRLvQ_u63oe0LbQNCDHoFOyaSiSme1OySNisSx/s320/DSCF3238.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beadlet anemone</td></tr>
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The common periwinkles were indeed very common, and several of the pools were filled with them. The anemone does look more impressive under water with tentacles extended, I have to admit. I also saw a couple of fish, possibly blennies, and a large shrimp...or maybe it was a prawn?<br />
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I had to leave all too soon, and walk back to Bempton to catch the last train home. A fantastic day out, even if I did end up with horrid sunburn all over the back of my neck...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-73917928304535076542015-04-07T07:52:00.002-07:002015-04-07T07:52:48.874-07:00There's a pheasant in my greenhouse! and other stories<br />
Where is this year going? I can't believe it is April already. I love the anticipation of the coming spring that the late winter months bring; watching for snowdrops and daffodils tentatively poking their heads above the soil, and those teasing days of blue skies and mild temperatures before another flurry of snow reminds us we are still in the clutches of winter.<br />
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Then, all of a sudden, the chiffchaffs are back from Africa, trees and hedgerows are becoming greener everyday and the whole season seems to have crept upon us with a shout. People around the country are already reporting sightings of swallows; perhaps the birds knew about the mini heatwave we seem to be having at the moment.<br />
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I've been spending several hours of each day down at the allotment. There is still plenty of digging to be done, and I seem to have fallen behind with the tasks despite taking on the plot in early winter. I have managed to get quite a bit done though, and the plot is gradually taking shape.<br />
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The gales we had a couple of weeks ago destroyed a couple more of my greenhouse panes, and I spent a lot of time picking up each shard of glass (as Sybil joins me on the allotment now) and putting new panes of glass up. Despite all of my hastily-acquired DIY skills, I arrived on the plot on Saturday morning to a sudden commotion inside the greenhouse. A pheasant had somehow managed to squeeze its way in and was panicking and flying about inside, desperately looking for an escape route. I quickly cornered the pesky bird and managed to pick it up, but not before it threw itself with some force at one of my larger panes. I sent the bird on its way and set to trying to fix the now gaping hole in the back of my greenhouse. This is the best I can do:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLlN6FHZuzUvg0JZ6nHDTcUpfMNQsDcsDfg-IHnCy_GQFm1TCFXVyXG3hSKMud0-6ZAH2BMCIPwBbNdX856I-MWiDEvXIWZXu5Rf4x2KrkI_2qKVecQaLj_1ebSJzBDlSp06-dy8O0WN4f/s1600/DSCF2627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLlN6FHZuzUvg0JZ6nHDTcUpfMNQsDcsDfg-IHnCy_GQFm1TCFXVyXG3hSKMud0-6ZAH2BMCIPwBbNdX856I-MWiDEvXIWZXu5Rf4x2KrkI_2qKVecQaLj_1ebSJzBDlSp06-dy8O0WN4f/s1600/DSCF2627.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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but thankfully the greenhouse is still plenty warm enough for my seedlings to germinate. Here's some I prepared earlier:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_b-uS-JYtrVx2O6LWwrqM156a81wHI94jr_9bId_qHRgOx4Qss4vdj-nTDmRt1sKTpilY0DezxlbLRnOV5sv5O0yFyxI2rFlGZsruOnRySdUybV1n5oYW2oeiywQhrXUrNTozQCXSUyo/s1600/DSCF2629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_b-uS-JYtrVx2O6LWwrqM156a81wHI94jr_9bId_qHRgOx4Qss4vdj-nTDmRt1sKTpilY0DezxlbLRnOV5sv5O0yFyxI2rFlGZsruOnRySdUybV1n5oYW2oeiywQhrXUrNTozQCXSUyo/s1600/DSCF2629.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pea Kelvedon Wonder</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVFnqv_ffcmDeG9_uGH3LGrDC6A2ZwNorHpjbEDJE_Uytb9MmFnLKCPHro9qNo2JyYmfBC5OEkFK4y5YcP1yMe8Gak4xkdVk6UBGLtKc4UpmNyPN9XuYhTsMJVOnOt1_4FTsvVoD5RwA0k/s1600/DSCF2630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVFnqv_ffcmDeG9_uGH3LGrDC6A2ZwNorHpjbEDJE_Uytb9MmFnLKCPHro9qNo2JyYmfBC5OEkFK4y5YcP1yMe8Gak4xkdVk6UBGLtKc4UpmNyPN9XuYhTsMJVOnOt1_4FTsvVoD5RwA0k/s1600/DSCF2630.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Pea</td></tr>
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The sweet peas are ready to be potted on, and I finally seem to have come to an uneasy truce with the mouse living inside the greenhouse. We had an ongoing battle last month; I would plant the pea seeds and during the night, he or she would thank me for the free feast and eat the whole lot. I now leave a large scattering of peanuts on the greenhouse floor, and the little mouse seems happy with this arrangement. He/she has snaffled a few more of my sweet pea seeds, but my Kelvedon Wonder peas have germinated and will hopefully be feeding myself this time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqMATM1IO2OitQdq16PSc2t2lHGTCAL6Nr9z3Herpp128WtwmiIuqAJFqLTcLMfxfn_ntUUDvP5DKOl-99n4lUMxRZCYY9ZdEMqTK2NOvDzLAhSghnfT0tMlyNBnUu6Jc4uZWvGg7tN-7/s1600/DSCF2633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijqMATM1IO2OitQdq16PSc2t2lHGTCAL6Nr9z3Herpp128WtwmiIuqAJFqLTcLMfxfn_ntUUDvP5DKOl-99n4lUMxRZCYY9ZdEMqTK2NOvDzLAhSghnfT0tMlyNBnUu6Jc4uZWvGg7tN-7/s1600/DSCF2633.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parsley, Mint, Chives</td></tr>
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The herb bed in the picture above was a tangled mess of couch grass, brambles and various other weeds whose names I do not know. I cleared the whole lot and put some concrete slabs around the outside to create a herb garden. I have cheated and bought some herb plants from the supermarket, but the other varieties I want to grown will be (hopefully) grown from seed.<br />
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The frogspawn I introduced to my pond has now hatched, and I have several happy tadpole residents. They get free room and board in exchange for mopping up the pesky slugs when they are fully grown.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKXgAFvDdfTG5KIm9IuB1R8JGgybN8Ma6S2Bt1ugMqViKhwxrcz4msX149AbgDrd1ay7M-m0Y2iHHbYmUcAfGedFTdK40YINKY1jWbnUyz2Rhyk6vCaVnoBq_YL644RPt7_-FQsRPuZyk_/s1600/DSCF2639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKXgAFvDdfTG5KIm9IuB1R8JGgybN8Ma6S2Bt1ugMqViKhwxrcz4msX149AbgDrd1ay7M-m0Y2iHHbYmUcAfGedFTdK40YINKY1jWbnUyz2Rhyk6vCaVnoBq_YL644RPt7_-FQsRPuZyk_/s1600/DSCF2639.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny tadpoles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih16X39sHKXTjkiU1JO-a8GX850FQWrStEDtnUcpN_oa04kG682VUcTPWzdJbf-L_xsobTpybG8ow0jFMsJERR9aNAR6KbVHZO9Hn3sJ_NsqvmfOo5Yrwok12dMIQw-_JAHnEFHpM_phMg/s1600/DSCF2641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih16X39sHKXTjkiU1JO-a8GX850FQWrStEDtnUcpN_oa04kG682VUcTPWzdJbf-L_xsobTpybG8ow0jFMsJERR9aNAR6KbVHZO9Hn3sJ_NsqvmfOo5Yrwok12dMIQw-_JAHnEFHpM_phMg/s1600/DSCF2641.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture of some soil (aka wildflower seeds)</td></tr>
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Next to the pond I have sown a huge amount of wildflower seeds. I love wildflowers, and the bees and butterflies the packet claims they will attract. Whether they grow or not remains to be seen. I will keep you updated.<br />
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I have also finished the strawberry bed. I would love to learn to make my own jam, so I bought loads of strawberry plants from the Aldi and dedicated a whole raised bed to them. Apparently the weed control fabric will keep the fruits off the soil and help prevent them rotting. It won't stop the birds or the wasps getting to them first, though.<br />
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On the way to and from the allotment, I pass a delightful area of my estate that has been planted with tons of daffodils, cowslips and primroses. They are really in their prime right now and look amazing; if only more estates were planted up like this in my town.<br />
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Thanks for reading :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-70862365674715246682015-03-16T08:17:00.000-07:002015-03-16T08:17:17.903-07:00Kinder Scout via Crowden Clough<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi readers. Sybil and I ventured out to the Peak District yesterday. It's been way too long since we last visited the park, and I was determined to make the best use of an otherwise empty Sunday. <br />
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We left the busy train at Edale, after Sybil had, of course, made friends with most of the passengers and train staff. Her habit of sitting on my knee in order to look out of the window always manages to bring a few smiles and friendly comments; at 20kg, she isn't your typical lapdog. <br />
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Our destination today was the plateau of Kinder Scout. I wanted to climb this via the less busy route of Crowden Clough. We joined the Pennine Way out of Edale and headed towards Upper Booth Farm. Today the farm was pretty much deserted, save for a few chickens pecking around, as it is still fairly early in the walking season.<br />
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A few hardy campers had pitched their tents in the field. Rather them than me, personally, as even my flat gets pretty cold during the early spring nights. Mind you, I am rather strict when it comes to turning the heating on.<br />
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We soon reached Crowden Clough. The path here winds rather lazily through the valley alongside, and sometimes through, the thankfully fairly shallow stream that is Crowden Brook. What the stream lacks in depth, it more than makes up for in natural beauty, particularly in the form of waterfalls. Here are a few pitiful attempts at photographing them:<br />
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Sybil, however, isn't too keen on getting her feet wet, and sometimes convincing her to cross the stream was a job in itself.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmUsyW5Fz585TqpmoRYxKXTT9viGiBvs_IAv1DFUXAksyUEVy3Zj8WXmRAzP2BnMBdSuDnyHY1vyq99i68UP341Sa34PrZ1D3ViuHqOnogR3GOEXQyyPG9oIj2ryN5SfDTKudtoe7hPin/s1600/DSCF2543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmUsyW5Fz585TqpmoRYxKXTT9viGiBvs_IAv1DFUXAksyUEVy3Zj8WXmRAzP2BnMBdSuDnyHY1vyq99i68UP341Sa34PrZ1D3ViuHqOnogR3GOEXQyyPG9oIj2ryN5SfDTKudtoe7hPin/s1600/DSCF2543.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hmm, really not too sure Mum. It looks all wet.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg869adMw2AMILDc4e7h3DFnBzlLN6A3mlkhWL9mVB0aoTukJchVLUoNdhplHLvZvKeVxz7aKY9L7Er1p_JVvZajRUw5usdTi9PvkbuXGPRJHUuXh1WE74nlD0IQCssjcJiG1U2xb3r6pxx/s1600/DSCF2550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg869adMw2AMILDc4e7h3DFnBzlLN6A3mlkhWL9mVB0aoTukJchVLUoNdhplHLvZvKeVxz7aKY9L7Er1p_JVvZajRUw5usdTi9PvkbuXGPRJHUuXh1WE74nlD0IQCssjcJiG1U2xb3r6pxx/s1600/DSCF2550.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is there a boat somewhere?</td></tr>
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There is certainly no water-loving breed in this dog's genetic makeup. Posing, however, is a different story; that is, if you can get her to sit still for long enough.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAtCzcSCJ1H_NigjnbWzVniafT05u5DCyZdyjntaOYw0DF0ZBzvSt2dQOIbgwXQebK5UCET0CT5hNzpzvUyg9Ivg9NPbgfUUHARd-GZJHicVJWnHG1BJk28CvY4nX8iFzqcNk8PR2pjrF3/s1600/DSCF2549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAtCzcSCJ1H_NigjnbWzVniafT05u5DCyZdyjntaOYw0DF0ZBzvSt2dQOIbgwXQebK5UCET0CT5hNzpzvUyg9Ivg9NPbgfUUHARd-GZJHicVJWnHG1BJk28CvY4nX8iFzqcNk8PR2pjrF3/s1600/DSCF2549.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stopping for a quick rest.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzH-dNTu_UicNunDSR2Cn7NgE-yHocS_eTZmSd_lhk97eVG97dkcZbDVa5HfWOiZZ2NGb85iXT56W3Y_ToCV1KYkL2hFSSKMiicV0SPEYXb3y6-gKVcNtnutzr_U4w6kV0gJbvypBvMOvm/s1600/DSCF2560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzH-dNTu_UicNunDSR2Cn7NgE-yHocS_eTZmSd_lhk97eVG97dkcZbDVa5HfWOiZZ2NGb85iXT56W3Y_ToCV1KYkL2hFSSKMiicV0SPEYXb3y6-gKVcNtnutzr_U4w6kV0gJbvypBvMOvm/s1600/DSCF2560.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come on, Mum. The path goes this way.</td></tr>
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The final scramble on the plateau was a huge undertaking for someone of my (non) fitness level. The path was so steep in places, and the footholds were far enough apart to make me glad I was blessed with such long legs. The large stack of rocks that is Crowden Tower loomed above me, drawing me forward by reassuring me that I was almost at the top. I had a vision of the tower being an optical illusion, that upon reaching it I would be confronted by another sizeable hill to climb before I crested the summit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnXGTvoyWYRRw3F6qFxU08sSd4gJ5FDTvI4TJBpUfSeyl1YQ_69GsRZrBzW5-02KianuOL9qES0gwMSD4O0FBsnuMCC-x9l2gyrd3Jcz1vwv_4l29G6FMxS9kcvrC-8WgXY9dh78xwBKi/s1600/DSCF2575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnXGTvoyWYRRw3F6qFxU08sSd4gJ5FDTvI4TJBpUfSeyl1YQ_69GsRZrBzW5-02KianuOL9qES0gwMSD4O0FBsnuMCC-x9l2gyrd3Jcz1vwv_4l29G6FMxS9kcvrC-8WgXY9dh78xwBKi/s1600/DSCF2575.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's that a-way</td></tr>
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Thankfully this was not the case; instead, the scene that greeted us was rather breathtaking. Rocks of every size, shape and texture dotted the plateau, some smooth and flat, whittled down by years of rain, wind and snow; whilst others were huge, round boulders, taller than I was and three times as wide. <br />
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We rounded the corner, sticking to the most obvious footpath, only for myself to sink straight up to my calves in a huge patch of boggy peat. Sybil's delicate paws barely dented the surface, yet my not inconsiderable weight swallowed my feet and ankles whole. I proceeded to perform a strange kind of shuffle-walk, trying to walk forward without loosing either of my boots. Finally managing to reach firm ground again, I was relieved to see that we were heading towards a thoughtfully constructed flagstone path.<br />
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We passed through the amazing landscape that is the Woolpacks, a collection of misshapen rocks even more curious than those we had already encountered. The magnificence of them could not be captured by my amateurish photography skills, but the image that my mind conjured up was that the landscape was rather moon-like in atmosphere. Of course, never having been to the moon, I am less than qualified to compare the two, but it certainly is worth going up Kinder Scout to appreciate it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejlpOWhn8jc_dK-cqPZ_0yhC0Ji1oQZzM9-JgzoZJEQAb2qnBt_dGRcD7zBTXUDM_5vTZ5RRrpOHSEcRMDKSFcXfY8mwBtQPHZ10qxkN0N7WQcCgmJT0atcHO_6uxcG8DemxDULKCRDyE/s1600/DSCF2599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejlpOWhn8jc_dK-cqPZ_0yhC0Ji1oQZzM9-JgzoZJEQAb2qnBt_dGRcD7zBTXUDM_5vTZ5RRrpOHSEcRMDKSFcXfY8mwBtQPHZ10qxkN0N7WQcCgmJT0atcHO_6uxcG8DemxDULKCRDyE/s1600/DSCF2599.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pym Chair, I believe?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyYMn-1CKqEH9TUfZVusE7nyYQzXTDbkLsQrZKXIFyWcF0rh2hQXG-Adgv_SKFcp5sydF2NHQ66X-_EMwD6-Jzrz3Emg4EwGMDg9lk8f6OM6Z6eYlDVLNdiIgbzgz0TNQPcnjc_3SZG4d/s1600/DSCF2602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyYMn-1CKqEH9TUfZVusE7nyYQzXTDbkLsQrZKXIFyWcF0rh2hQXG-Adgv_SKFcp5sydF2NHQ66X-_EMwD6-Jzrz3Emg4EwGMDg9lk8f6OM6Z6eYlDVLNdiIgbzgz0TNQPcnjc_3SZG4d/s1600/DSCF2602.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice place for a lunch break</td></tr>
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We stopped for lunch beneath another huge tower of rock I believe to be known as Pym Chair (please correct me if I'm wrong). The view was one not to be sniffed at as I sat and scoffed my sandwiches, watching people in the distance climbing the monstrosity that is Jacob's Ladder. With the mist beginning to roll out behind us, I decided that we shouldn't linger and curved round to meet the top of the Ladder. Descending this way with Sybil on lead was not really an experience I would like to repeat, but nonetheless we managed to reach the bottom unscathed and I let Sybil refresh herself in the river near the bridge before we joined the path back to Edale.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rather delicately taking a dip</td></tr>
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A helicopter suddenly appeared over the hill as we began our journey back to the village. I know the guys are doing some restoration work on Kinder, so hopefully this helicopter was involved in that work and not rescuing someone from the now mist-enshrouded summit. <br />
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With an hour and a half to wait until the train home arrived and now that Sybil was of drinking age, I decided to risk taking her in her first ever pub. I peered around the pub door rather nervously, mentally mapping out where all the other dogs were sat. I had little reason to worry though, as my usually leash-reactive Sybil was quickly making friends with another collie once she realised that well-behaved dogs got delicious chips. </div>
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She also got a fair share of the treats from other customers; in fact, one customer crouched in front of her to ask her to sit and give paw for a biscuit, and she rather shamelessly threw herself against him for a cuddle, eliciting the desired aww's from the room. My dog can be such a creep, sometimes.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-82265813339112149922015-02-06T05:40:00.002-08:002015-02-06T05:40:25.991-08:00A short stroll with the hounds<br />
Yesterday I took Sybil and her friend Meg, a yellow Labrador, for a good walk around Scholes and Keppel's Field. We do this walk fairly often, but yesterday I decided to take my camera as there are usually a few interesting birds around.<br />
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It wasn't a great day for photography as it turned out as it was rather overcast, but we still enjoyed the walk. We headed up across the fields and into Scholes' Wood, where Sybil chased her usual squirrels and Meg trotted along rather faithfully by my side.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewtECQ4fHoZRkvYm9iwOVGLmnoYy5ujHyEfWE4PCViHgDOWPvg0y-weX5w9CTMIAuTfHfdRrGfTBbhKHefDkaj965gyra_ZpuooCfwJE-VpemYGSY2nlpI_8NlZX6JlbpcmQqXTgqqHhH/s1600/DSCF2298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiewtECQ4fHoZRkvYm9iwOVGLmnoYy5ujHyEfWE4PCViHgDOWPvg0y-weX5w9CTMIAuTfHfdRrGfTBbhKHefDkaj965gyra_ZpuooCfwJE-VpemYGSY2nlpI_8NlZX6JlbpcmQqXTgqqHhH/s1600/DSCF2298.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine cone in Scholes' Wood</td></tr>
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Leaving the woods, we walked alongside the cow enclosure. There have been several cows, the Highland breed I think, on Keppel's Field for quite a while now. They don't cause any trouble, but at first I was a bit peeved that they take up a good portion of the field. There are several footpaths running through the cow enclosure, but we never venture inside unless the cows have been moved elsewhere.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIKDp7SHdXa9cSZjyQOQNVaLwO7vLV9VEAQ2p0v7ECpHjSVZoqf8kVshlYJJTJcAKEIE3vl0HzHEP79wglFOL3yF-2H5j-ZgDH1A3vqI-ulQvYMthYkYZXP0ObWT3iZ_7Dtq36wqoSLHV/s1600/DSCF2300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcIKDp7SHdXa9cSZjyQOQNVaLwO7vLV9VEAQ2p0v7ECpHjSVZoqf8kVshlYJJTJcAKEIE3vl0HzHEP79wglFOL3yF-2H5j-ZgDH1A3vqI-ulQvYMthYkYZXP0ObWT3iZ_7Dtq36wqoSLHV/s1600/DSCF2300.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Head Honcho</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWG5QuQdq8RqFKDBWQ3uRmLIKWWY7cVhYPB0O5fSaCMSw3Tjc8EFLeLwR6en9WfI3fq5D_A0W5PTVMU8-OQk8-ST7KDGYKf3wIw5gR5Q0iLEAHXDsJXCIrZG_9UGsR7rBVdtF_Vsl0puj/s1600/DSCF2310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWG5QuQdq8RqFKDBWQ3uRmLIKWWY7cVhYPB0O5fSaCMSw3Tjc8EFLeLwR6en9WfI3fq5D_A0W5PTVMU8-OQk8-ST7KDGYKf3wIw5gR5Q0iLEAHXDsJXCIrZG_9UGsR7rBVdtF_Vsl0puj/s1600/DSCF2310.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast time</td></tr>
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I also spotted the kestrel in with the cows. With the long grass, Keppel's Field must make a fantastic territory for a pair of kestrels, and I certainly see at least one bird everytime I'm here, either perched in a tree or hovering low over the grass. This time, it was a female:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1l-O_ycJ64GM8SAwQgVQ79D6HI7nOV-7JIWNJUwH8QWNFlU5j865nX26BmAzyWW8Zf8gFLuaZQmmVbN7F5MS5P4uON3gwE2k8A44334QFC8aA9amyhOQrnH7Vo_5-3phvhBg8_foS36jt/s1600/DSCF2317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1l-O_ycJ64GM8SAwQgVQ79D6HI7nOV-7JIWNJUwH8QWNFlU5j865nX26BmAzyWW8Zf8gFLuaZQmmVbN7F5MS5P4uON3gwE2k8A44334QFC8aA9amyhOQrnH7Vo_5-3phvhBg8_foS36jt/s1600/DSCF2317.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rather bad kestrel photo</td></tr>
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Then the dogs did some posing. Meet my friend Meg, and of course you all know Sybil.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhEeie7HizUTNjKlsdHiHK8VVdF-bV1TlWDGqVjr-zoS2JQIiU7OogGVpftmIZgU91mzvIQS-UNv9SH1OFqqgc0Xf5I1k1wPIbOwhOi2FpbgKGUGc9GZMecYx5DfpN-unS-sDD7FGckf4T/s1600/DSCF2324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhEeie7HizUTNjKlsdHiHK8VVdF-bV1TlWDGqVjr-zoS2JQIiU7OogGVpftmIZgU91mzvIQS-UNv9SH1OFqqgc0Xf5I1k1wPIbOwhOi2FpbgKGUGc9GZMecYx5DfpN-unS-sDD7FGckf4T/s1600/DSCF2324.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meg</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqoICvaKr2G-be0Q8041qHjUrrGfSD9ddc4jndwCIUaU8L2nZ4QFVlWtUNawKocDdrAR4mAww8Awk-sN2-89jHoo38V0-BYIMrDNGCXezkjvfasJFTXDWeCkSX7es7dicvTVrXOD2SL0o/s1600/DSCF2336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrqoICvaKr2G-be0Q8041qHjUrrGfSD9ddc4jndwCIUaU8L2nZ4QFVlWtUNawKocDdrAR4mAww8Awk-sN2-89jHoo38V0-BYIMrDNGCXezkjvfasJFTXDWeCkSX7es7dicvTVrXOD2SL0o/s1600/DSCF2336.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sybil</td></tr>
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Meg proving she can move just as fast as Sybil:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdurCWb0Q4cjZtjSWU4YOx0FLRhB2lBGtB7NtMlK3M0lX7Cc1B5eO_XYiMPYdlF4F1vhcQMU-ypmJZ2zU7ZZYFLq9PGmPCotKeNZSKiDqhvXb-TRYDpVKB0Ci3vAcIFj_U9DS1KSxOPpZ/s1600/DSCF2327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixdurCWb0Q4cjZtjSWU4YOx0FLRhB2lBGtB7NtMlK3M0lX7Cc1B5eO_XYiMPYdlF4F1vhcQMU-ypmJZ2zU7ZZYFLq9PGmPCotKeNZSKiDqhvXb-TRYDpVKB0Ci3vAcIFj_U9DS1KSxOPpZ/s1600/DSCF2327.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Labrador attack!</td></tr>
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And we found a bit of snow to play in.<br />
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We went back down the other side of the large field, and met up with our kestrel again.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another shockingly bad couple of kestrel photos.</td></tr>
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I stalked the bird for a good twenty minutes, trying to get close enough for a decent photo of her hovering. However, everytime I set my tripod up and zoomed in, she would wheel away and carry on hunting even further out of shot. These are the best photos I could manage. It is now my mission to get a decent photo of her, even with my limited camera skills. Watch this space!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHncp1jz4n0DTkyBbu_uf79oWZPA4KYGVWn5j_tO4QIV8kcLJgM40z2PTN9q_PV5yuhg53lUiyUrweCZZMVLYAG4sVeMx5eRri9MHLRH-ptaF0U36C7ckSIULrAGTpq5dhppdOTb8mS7TT/s1600/DSCF2332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHncp1jz4n0DTkyBbu_uf79oWZPA4KYGVWn5j_tO4QIV8kcLJgM40z2PTN9q_PV5yuhg53lUiyUrweCZZMVLYAG4sVeMx5eRri9MHLRH-ptaF0U36C7ckSIULrAGTpq5dhppdOTb8mS7TT/s1600/DSCF2332.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A random photo of grass poking through the ice</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjll3YwNRXXlv6tJiUvwCPH7_hXFVa9wQ5MlTrtVqNJbWWVBUjbUYwOdBI_g21Y9WEZiJscJ8QKbPvG0uE7SsSyDiIOVCA2IpnC6sjdI4DllhQRNgblu8MkLVlxWyhqgg_sVA3GweI6NA2E/s1600/DSCF2358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjll3YwNRXXlv6tJiUvwCPH7_hXFVa9wQ5MlTrtVqNJbWWVBUjbUYwOdBI_g21Y9WEZiJscJ8QKbPvG0uE7SsSyDiIOVCA2IpnC6sjdI4DllhQRNgblu8MkLVlxWyhqgg_sVA3GweI6NA2E/s1600/DSCF2358.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And a rather surprised-looking Sybil.</td></tr>
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See you soon :)<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-69665880614089679022015-02-02T07:13:00.000-08:002015-02-02T07:13:08.584-08:00Plot 23<span id="goog_774286175"></span><span id="goog_774286176"></span><br />
I'm back again, with another update on my allotment plot. Life has been getting in the way of time spent down on my plot, so I've been doing my best to squeeze in the odd hour here and there. Hopefully, now the nights are retreating as spring draws close, I will be able to get a huge move on and start planting some seeds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJD3ufWLMIK50514T75PlLimCN27_O10OiVe8AJaqUaXqExyAnvYQ9cbD5hREXgl5xyYpHkKvuMfuy5quEUgDL6Kd5l4RqI3TWOwYlQYr3hoPlcwPYQ2pp8WGfx7l9a7fFjnAK-ZlEuli/s1600/DSCF2283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJD3ufWLMIK50514T75PlLimCN27_O10OiVe8AJaqUaXqExyAnvYQ9cbD5hREXgl5xyYpHkKvuMfuy5quEUgDL6Kd5l4RqI3TWOwYlQYr3hoPlcwPYQ2pp8WGfx7l9a7fFjnAK-ZlEuli/s1600/DSCF2283.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greenhouse</td></tr>
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I've been tidying the greenhouse. Not so much as you can tell from this picture, but the inside has gone from plain chaos to organised chaos, which is how I usually bumble through life. I managed to get two cotoneaster plants from Morrisons priced at just £1.50 each, so they are ready to go outside once I figure out where they are going. Most of the missing panes in the greenhouse are now replaced, so it will be a good place for my tomatoes in the summer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGljsrvWmkROqP8SGUVA8RyMVwv1pk0Ho6dzwb0YAdAArXEQt8PUwyQUeQAPbwOGTyJpmyjAuW0WcpXyTKL1D5hxIuNR67UllKusJjmm-tS7c4zduTRocu3_BWf6vvj6Zbuj_r8zcmDMEx/s1600/DSCF2285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGljsrvWmkROqP8SGUVA8RyMVwv1pk0Ho6dzwb0YAdAArXEQt8PUwyQUeQAPbwOGTyJpmyjAuW0WcpXyTKL1D5hxIuNR67UllKusJjmm-tS7c4zduTRocu3_BWf6vvj6Zbuj_r8zcmDMEx/s1600/DSCF2285.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Digging and weeding</td></tr>
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I've started doing a little bit of digging. The ground is a bit too wet at the moment for this job to be pleasurable in any way, but it needs to be done. I've dug up several of what I think were rhubarb plants; it seemed the roots had rotted anyway, so they were probably no good, but I'm not particularly keen on rhubarb anyway so I have made way for vegetables I will actually eat. The dog food bag comes in handy for filling with weed roots and taking them up to the fire hut to be burned.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghljBnCjBf4CNyBvboLIwUB_xi17nYY_Y7UBxjyIKyBK7S8AH_HMEE92ucK1LNVo2UQIeranbSZs8y_Ch2mQZOInHRHC1RARaeTurD5tFewTv-5gD8EUVsBM8LlyMbrv634XB3ax5HobUn/s1600/DSCF2287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghljBnCjBf4CNyBvboLIwUB_xi17nYY_Y7UBxjyIKyBK7S8AH_HMEE92ucK1LNVo2UQIeranbSZs8y_Ch2mQZOInHRHC1RARaeTurD5tFewTv-5gD8EUVsBM8LlyMbrv634XB3ax5HobUn/s1600/DSCF2287.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's the stuff!</td></tr>
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There are two piles of compost, all nice and ready to be thrown in the veg beds. I've emptied one of the piles, filling another dog food bag and lugging it up to the greenhouse to shake over the beds in there. The soil was really dusty and no use at all, but now with a good load of compost mixed in, my tomatoes will hopefully thrive.<br />
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You can see the difference in the quality of the soil in the above picture. The grey soil underneath would have been exhausted of nutrients and I would have struggled to grow anything at all in that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5v3wK15O_WvOz6hLHOAqoSuCP6fQ1b1Y9H0g-qdqPrhp0A5MFURvjz9in3TWeNNLpObmgruuc4AACWAvm1s_4xmJ-srIFTfBhvutRvnbA808rv6ybChpNf-ZLH9jh_GigB9FhXxquWX4/s1600/DSCF2288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5v3wK15O_WvOz6hLHOAqoSuCP6fQ1b1Y9H0g-qdqPrhp0A5MFURvjz9in3TWeNNLpObmgruuc4AACWAvm1s_4xmJ-srIFTfBhvutRvnbA808rv6ybChpNf-ZLH9jh_GigB9FhXxquWX4/s1600/DSCF2288.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The next job...</td></tr>
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The picture above shows one of the next jobs to be tackled. Behind the greenhouse is a homemade shed, currently full of rubbish and scary cobwebs. The brambles on the land here need chopping down and the grass tidying up; perhaps in the future I will have a few hens on this area. I could modify the shed into a henhouse, with perches and a nestbox, and the land is a good size to section off for them. Just hope there aren't many foxes that visit the site...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-30908634927052580172015-01-05T06:08:00.000-08:002015-01-05T06:08:21.117-08:00Down on the Plot<br />
Greetings! I've spent a few hours on the allotment plot, and most of the grass is now cleared. I now have several huge piles of grass, waiting to be burnt. I've also cleared the goosegrass and brambles from the fences and now have a fairly clear boundary.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjULob_1jLkfXietpq_T0pOkFpvPr0Xqo6W4OJ9-8UNYJF0HZ6Gbc_F-vA_bGPJbZoJZpPDG8-0p_cn8AdXtH3QU-NrnjZK0h5h3KhD72HijXO8hY19m2AZ_TM2Ghc2nElIjPLoUePTccx/s1600/DSCF2277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjULob_1jLkfXietpq_T0pOkFpvPr0Xqo6W4OJ9-8UNYJF0HZ6Gbc_F-vA_bGPJbZoJZpPDG8-0p_cn8AdXtH3QU-NrnjZK0h5h3KhD72HijXO8hY19m2AZ_TM2Ghc2nElIjPLoUePTccx/s1600/DSCF2277.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming along nicely</td></tr>
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I've discovered two compost heaps at the bottom of the plot, which I plan to bring back into good use. There are a few borders already marked out, and I will probably use these for herbs this year. I've also made use of a pile of aluminium sheets; these now make a nice fence. I just need to dig a couple of holes for some more fence posts and nail the sheets to the wood so they are secure. Don't want Sybil roaming onto other plots!</div>
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Underneath all that grass, a path of paving slabs was hiding. I've cleared a lot of the grass and need to secure the stones as some are a little wobbly, but this is one of the jobs last on my list; for each morning, as the wind blows down the makeshift fence during the night, I lift it up to discover a vole scurrying about in tunnels under the aluminium. I gently guide the vole onto the next plot along, which is currently empty. Don't want to be standing on the little fellow.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRRJh92Q7amNEqzVCqiN0xKD8P2nVXYKAYL_NyKPgrNBoxuxi3rw1LOWaCDWbUVJOf9tjyJAtSIkZwUUBzRIWT-9gciW-95tI7jszibjYvxjW7jOKKizTz8aX_q5NBYB9N2u_D7ireV3M/s1600/DSCF2279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRRJh92Q7amNEqzVCqiN0xKD8P2nVXYKAYL_NyKPgrNBoxuxi3rw1LOWaCDWbUVJOf9tjyJAtSIkZwUUBzRIWT-9gciW-95tI7jszibjYvxjW7jOKKizTz8aX_q5NBYB9N2u_D7ireV3M/s1600/DSCF2279.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vole tunnels in the grass</td></tr>
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It's nice to see a bit of wildlife making use of my little garden. As long as the creature stays away from my seedlings in the spring, I'm sure we will all get along fine.<br />
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The next job now is to mark out where the vegetable/flower beds and paths are going to go. There are some handy planks of wood in the greenhouse which will make a nice system of raised beds. Shouldn't be too long with the next update, if this weather holds out!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-53913034175518677942014-12-29T06:11:00.001-08:002014-12-29T06:11:07.615-08:00What's all that white stuff?!<br />
So, I guess it snowed over the weekend. Of course, the first thing Sybil and I did Saturday morning was go outside to play in it. Not to the park, for as I suspected the hills of which were packed with eager kids, both young and old, sledging away. No; Sybil and I visited our secret clifftop on the edge of Kimberworth.<br />
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We had the place to ourselves, and there were hardly any prints in the fresh snow. First we played catch:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyjsxOaXc9IAcHRpGXqD63hHzyaApOzS7zElg7n7khJbUsYVnZ7A2dJF2M_OJu_IMraWp6r7erOmqCNjOFy-VxtLuaPS3Xq76BicZHwhicrkaPFQM09dR_j_y2Ge-leTQiQUBMc-tkdkW_/s1600/S0292208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyjsxOaXc9IAcHRpGXqD63hHzyaApOzS7zElg7n7khJbUsYVnZ7A2dJF2M_OJu_IMraWp6r7erOmqCNjOFy-VxtLuaPS3Xq76BicZHwhicrkaPFQM09dR_j_y2Ge-leTQiQUBMc-tkdkW_/s1600/S0292208.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Please excuse the fact that I am wrapped up well and Sybil is left to freeze with no coat on. She is warm enough, I assure you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtFofNEi1MLQnGTxjByC2TEL9nOfmvY48dDbWaAyvtrjROiG_aHkTW63nerKx3_VwCHCKL6LCDGtEbNn2dDjTXDfCvCeaB-eiIxtjKkr2sKxWnYsWV1R37gzDZJwFkfwkHtLE2lX43xu_/s1600/S0252166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYtFofNEi1MLQnGTxjByC2TEL9nOfmvY48dDbWaAyvtrjROiG_aHkTW63nerKx3_VwCHCKL6LCDGtEbNn2dDjTXDfCvCeaB-eiIxtjKkr2sKxWnYsWV1R37gzDZJwFkfwkHtLE2lX43xu_/s1600/S0252166.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at that fine form</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy-bekoFZgKjlC0RIR1zq3V56SYadcmJ_T6NHKwgdHzH-kEsdInfyqNI6xO3FBNqwuNTC1cKbuteKUhH0fo431iOVA-lAmW5gmhTlqEU6rGKZwP_2bjy118Aobv2xpALGs9GsosahDcZo/s1600/S0252167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHy-bekoFZgKjlC0RIR1zq3V56SYadcmJ_T6NHKwgdHzH-kEsdInfyqNI6xO3FBNqwuNTC1cKbuteKUhH0fo431iOVA-lAmW5gmhTlqEU6rGKZwP_2bjy118Aobv2xpALGs9GsosahDcZo/s1600/S0252167.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oops, missed!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxz42_ARxmSQUWMYtG2AHaUGEYq8rJykYEw7uCWgTCS0Tt37ZCs5D_VumrzZrjhSIWtIHmKZu611Mu3RTigbLEmOuWCh_sebbpxsKZYcgFBtZhQtkJudZHEH-YKD4SrnIh57HDj213JDg/s1600/S0282199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxz42_ARxmSQUWMYtG2AHaUGEYq8rJykYEw7uCWgTCS0Tt37ZCs5D_VumrzZrjhSIWtIHmKZu611Mu3RTigbLEmOuWCh_sebbpxsKZYcgFBtZhQtkJudZHEH-YKD4SrnIh57HDj213JDg/s1600/S0282199.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where's that darn snowball gone?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhCjO986qruBAUInr-ftW5LFsNHHPFkcgPNboTJRb6DeokWnkL1rzAbo5luBkbs22oM0ddaYJuKpkvWM6sYD8xn0_fCi-znSXpvCFRl6NpVBklBnPGfOl8NqK6UDFcuXKJHSFLMkwCSnk/s1600/S0282200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhCjO986qruBAUInr-ftW5LFsNHHPFkcgPNboTJRb6DeokWnkL1rzAbo5luBkbs22oM0ddaYJuKpkvWM6sYD8xn0_fCi-znSXpvCFRl6NpVBklBnPGfOl8NqK6UDFcuXKJHSFLMkwCSnk/s1600/S0282200.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hmm, perhaps I'm no good at this game...</td></tr>
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Then we built a snowdog. I say we: Sybil was more interested in eating the snow than building with it, so the resulting mess is mostly my own work.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4-ySIr5k5o725WAL5QCXA2WYgBI4Rk8KvjZfWhwLvI1DNqJ1BWRAis1uTE72kTn57y1PSt7sLr-T40C2_Mcaqmxx62fFFFa-TwKbhhjW3s6oCzO6dmmZ05RqAQCXcOTUYOMcjM-MGqVC/s1600/DSCF2189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF4-ySIr5k5o725WAL5QCXA2WYgBI4Rk8KvjZfWhwLvI1DNqJ1BWRAis1uTE72kTn57y1PSt7sLr-T40C2_Mcaqmxx62fFFFa-TwKbhhjW3s6oCzO6dmmZ05RqAQCXcOTUYOMcjM-MGqVC/s1600/DSCF2189.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowdog</td></tr>
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Can you see the resemblance?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SHHlYj6QYZUH0t67DpvPP2fNUUJkKjgvxsYcTsf680zymrIh1ZkLqpC_vmN2w3QGE2fovovofnl4tZQple0nQHptpHj0APWsTtYy2rhZZHqmeYOMCyEhWbYDF2zdwcBE1EtPTOvy-8bA/s1600/DSCF2214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SHHlYj6QYZUH0t67DpvPP2fNUUJkKjgvxsYcTsf680zymrIh1ZkLqpC_vmN2w3QGE2fovovofnl4tZQple0nQHptpHj0APWsTtYy2rhZZHqmeYOMCyEhWbYDF2zdwcBE1EtPTOvy-8bA/s1600/DSCF2214.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nope Mum, nothing like me; especially now I knocked it's nose off.</td></tr>
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And a bit of posing to finish. Enjoy what remains of the snow; hopefully it will be gone soon, so I can get back to work on the allotment.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJIaMWyh0wtMqO4HQ09m8OKxCe8t4Gw5-WjE2m_aaX1tQzp0-Ri2Z-mgo1Zqgs_6eOR0wHTJuMY5tUc6mRIRHpwv-79CaubNPDpF06DEse6vxuAa6j0URiFUQYwmYHCPsKLLI_gy9Rt0C/s1600/DSCF2141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJIaMWyh0wtMqO4HQ09m8OKxCe8t4Gw5-WjE2m_aaX1tQzp0-Ri2Z-mgo1Zqgs_6eOR0wHTJuMY5tUc6mRIRHpwv-79CaubNPDpF06DEse6vxuAa6j0URiFUQYwmYHCPsKLLI_gy9Rt0C/s1600/DSCF2141.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See you soon!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-48865307110460843842014-12-18T05:33:00.000-08:002014-12-18T05:33:18.269-08:00I'm back! And I have an allotment plot.<br />
Hey there, faithful readers! I'm back blogging after a prolonged break. I'm sorry to say that is has been a sad year for myself and my family; my mum became very ill during the summer and sadly passed away in September. Needless to say, I haven't been in the mood for blogging much. On top of that, I've also moved to a pleasant little flat near the centre of town. Sybil of course has moved in with me, and we have already got ourselves an allotment plot sorted in lieu of a garden.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGzwkG53m3S5gnQR6A53H53eQYvoP6bb1OIfPXIoaTMJXiSWFX1TsdRyOkSmvvRJZnzYCPSRsjvuy12iU1v3BgIla5CKhto0j_jV_JrF5ZMgA4nth0qziBz17oY66CS-AoqaaSsXmvJVL/s1600/DSCF2085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDGzwkG53m3S5gnQR6A53H53eQYvoP6bb1OIfPXIoaTMJXiSWFX1TsdRyOkSmvvRJZnzYCPSRsjvuy12iU1v3BgIla5CKhto0j_jV_JrF5ZMgA4nth0qziBz17oY66CS-AoqaaSsXmvJVL/s1600/DSCF2085.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hmm, guess it needs a bit of work, but one thing I'm not scared of is getting my hands dirty. I've already made a good start on clearing the long grass, and the fence on the right is now repaired (sort of) so Sybil can join me on my digging days.</div>
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Another "before" picture. As you can see it is a decent size, and plenty big enough for growing veg and flowers, whilst leaving a Sybil-friendly space.<br />
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There were several plots to choose from, but the main reason I chose this one is for this beauty:<br />
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It has a huge greenhouse :o). A few panels missing here and there, but nothing I can't fix. I may finally get my tomatoes to ripen next year. I've never been very successful with them so far.<br />
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So, I'll be dropping in regularly with updates on the allotment plot, as well as reporting on the adventures Sybil and I get up to on our walks. I shall see you all very soon :o)<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-71498655610228899272014-06-16T14:19:00.002-07:002014-06-16T14:19:40.646-07:00Some photos from Silverwood<br />
Here's a few photos I took at Silverwood last week.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgah1HQOQTIu47cM8dHnuvvmNnDOv3hopelpvtCfFJn5QPAO_4e2oqkKvepw235hZ7LGkngrg2c4S_UhKkZcN5oB2WnpvTClhZPSiXuzHc0qwpAfjD6KOkhQT137Bs698e_E3b44-P_MGwO/s1600/DSCF1428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgah1HQOQTIu47cM8dHnuvvmNnDOv3hopelpvtCfFJn5QPAO_4e2oqkKvepw235hZ7LGkngrg2c4S_UhKkZcN5oB2WnpvTClhZPSiXuzHc0qwpAfjD6KOkhQT137Bs698e_E3b44-P_MGwO/s1600/DSCF1428.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorse in flower</td></tr>
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Summer is really getting into full swing now, with pretty much everything in flower. The spring flowers are over with; bluebells, celandine and forget-me-nots have given way to poppies, dog rose and, well, bracken.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByb5OaI1v5QHo4JiBTSxTrxG9bL77Orm1MRHvPqmHkdYDZoj9f7jHN5mjqMNPkp03Okm1sfN0X7Dzm3Erv2FbWVP1yw9ngSJ6dQttdAhlrzzttPmK8nNU8hwruxMdFrNmPDCWShVpL5sl/s1600/DSCF1425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByb5OaI1v5QHo4JiBTSxTrxG9bL77Orm1MRHvPqmHkdYDZoj9f7jHN5mjqMNPkp03Okm1sfN0X7Dzm3Erv2FbWVP1yw9ngSJ6dQttdAhlrzzttPmK8nNU8hwruxMdFrNmPDCWShVpL5sl/s1600/DSCF1425.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The birds are still singing, and the trees hum with the sound of blue and great tit families moving through, looking for food to feed their newly-fledged young. Skylarks still sing their bubbling song from high up in the sky, and wrens throw their trilling song out of bushes as you walk past. <br />
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I found the egg shells above on the ground, just out of the long grass. It's likely they came from the nest of a ground-nesting bird such as a pipit or skylark, but I'm no expert. Speaking of meadow pipits:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6d9r8oliCLWkyAVTToKzoFhasu90n60LzqOND_fv-IOjSBETjQZ6HCREOgOVGhzNVzy7TR2CCCqAG27hHaqv9ChdttYSUaAUwR94WSKKthKWqBA-85ql70a-S13j83J74Bl3HWzlAxid/s1600/DSCF1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ6d9r8oliCLWkyAVTToKzoFhasu90n60LzqOND_fv-IOjSBETjQZ6HCREOgOVGhzNVzy7TR2CCCqAG27hHaqv9ChdttYSUaAUwR94WSKKthKWqBA-85ql70a-S13j83J74Bl3HWzlAxid/s1600/DSCF1491.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first mipit. Very happy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mipit</td></tr>
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I caught up with the swan family on the lake: the eggs have hatched and it seems they have five cygnets at the moment. They were at the far end of the lake and I could only get a rubbish photo of them, but I will be visiting again this week to see how they are faring:<br />
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Plenty of this about at the moment:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV86piYzoaZHhIVjYNuU4xO-b-6oSjqlrnjq0Pvx6_pi-e59SjaCpQTEhrcpN3X0enGa1Rjm8ocHXdeg8CimVNy4WhUzrrvNenBnLwK8IfmPFT3nQ0KgaSIyXbXGXNi6RdTTXeXrRBUwYN/s1600/DSCF1514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV86piYzoaZHhIVjYNuU4xO-b-6oSjqlrnjq0Pvx6_pi-e59SjaCpQTEhrcpN3X0enGa1Rjm8ocHXdeg8CimVNy4WhUzrrvNenBnLwK8IfmPFT3nQ0KgaSIyXbXGXNi6RdTTXeXrRBUwYN/s1600/DSCF1514.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuckoo spit</td></tr>
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And several of these. I was under the false impression that fungi only appeared in autumn, but I will be keeping my eyes peeled from now on:</div>
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I also found one of these: a lesser-spotted Sybil.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-19176873698923666672014-05-26T09:51:00.001-07:002014-05-26T09:51:37.503-07:00Potteric Carr Nature Festival<br />
Yesterday, Sunday the 25th, was the Nature Festival at Potteric Carr nature reserve in Doncaster.Now I love me a good nature festival. Not only was entry to the nature reserve free for the day, but there were plenty of stalls about various things, including herbs, art and crafts, plants for sale and information on how to sign up to be a volunteer.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4k9LgjQrvpgaT0uYXUS30BZfqqHse3HcxYzkpwfV3tFV6Yi_fxrA8upDyocs8JZ5eEvezxggebezDV9-fyOXhf98LEVzMbtWliBAU9GLyM4CT7bNt_QKrPvU_PPCEGVLMq7TDyd3DpZ8/s1600/DSCF1274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4k9LgjQrvpgaT0uYXUS30BZfqqHse3HcxYzkpwfV3tFV6Yi_fxrA8upDyocs8JZ5eEvezxggebezDV9-fyOXhf98LEVzMbtWliBAU9GLyM4CT7bNt_QKrPvU_PPCEGVLMq7TDyd3DpZ8/s1600/DSCF1274.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black headed gull from Decoy Marsh Hide</td></tr>
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I had a quick nosy around several of the stalls before heading off to the bird hides. Some local beekeepers were there with a small selection of honeybees on show. I was fascinated by their lifecycle and they answered many of my questions. I love bees and have read the book <i>A World Without Bees</i> by Alison Benjamin and Brian McCallum, which highlights some worrying facts about our honeybees. I recommend it to anyone else interested in bees and their decline.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5UBAnPzSWhBk9z8e4MGeRwBe-UBAq7h0NWu1ETi9mF1hNjnnIG1x-tPBUa4p1-NoTExX6RaRBgtqT7ZWt1kcQiTLEzssTIdYvKUGeDHqF4X7UrmJcC33RyOiAG1l5qvvaRlFie9YumXQ/s1600/DSCF1278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz5UBAnPzSWhBk9z8e4MGeRwBe-UBAq7h0NWu1ETi9mF1hNjnnIG1x-tPBUa4p1-NoTExX6RaRBgtqT7ZWt1kcQiTLEzssTIdYvKUGeDHqF4X7UrmJcC33RyOiAG1l5qvvaRlFie9YumXQ/s1600/DSCF1278.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pond with irises</td></tr>
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Upon reaching the cafe, I noticed a bird of prey stall. There were several species on display including a gorgeous barn owl, a kestrel and an eagle owl.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtESKoKPQgnsqYiO5DPo5NLLZ1tXtBg4QSBdxUmGNjWoAh3Iy7vJGtMtER-x_K7GQNvdM2KDWwrhmXwZ2b36KZQ6izZnnd4oYBghJVC9avvTkZ6zk-RmOE4k4HdUwmb-D_XgEzKXWTeIWi/s1600/DSCF1283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtESKoKPQgnsqYiO5DPo5NLLZ1tXtBg4QSBdxUmGNjWoAh3Iy7vJGtMtER-x_K7GQNvdM2KDWwrhmXwZ2b36KZQ6izZnnd4oYBghJVC9avvTkZ6zk-RmOE4k4HdUwmb-D_XgEzKXWTeIWi/s1600/DSCF1283.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kestrel</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AFrZf3vHu-_OUXSMmc0tVd1kSVSLss0XrtGKdyxblrAZsfcOAI9kldLsF0ir1IPwolH9XzVyY618FETGBVuohTpviCF_FNxfuX1Fh_I-S4jXK7I5o6-OBd2OIkXcAUn3XJz_JvqDbQvm/s1600/DSCF1279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0AFrZf3vHu-_OUXSMmc0tVd1kSVSLss0XrtGKdyxblrAZsfcOAI9kldLsF0ir1IPwolH9XzVyY618FETGBVuohTpviCF_FNxfuX1Fh_I-S4jXK7I5o6-OBd2OIkXcAUn3XJz_JvqDbQvm/s1600/DSCF1279.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eagle owl</td></tr>
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I then carried on walking along the wetland walk, a route that takes you past several large areas of marshland, and bumped into this little guy out with his family:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZsYg5c5QKe8nCBjuj-kcix56471gg7eikfz6zkqJlXu4Dbvv-zY05C-DJlmTDa2sfaUjfmFr5xymf58y7kw0BxCOp6xddsSq9Yq8abwS6b3j8bZzKB1EOA6fXwsQzkOFXnF-I5wfXTWIF/s1600/DSCF1291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZsYg5c5QKe8nCBjuj-kcix56471gg7eikfz6zkqJlXu4Dbvv-zY05C-DJlmTDa2sfaUjfmFr5xymf58y7kw0BxCOp6xddsSq9Yq8abwS6b3j8bZzKB1EOA6fXwsQzkOFXnF-I5wfXTWIF/s1600/DSCF1291.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canada goose-ling</td></tr>
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There were five goslings in total, with their parents watching over them diligently. The young ones were snacking happily on grass shoots while mum and dad goose glowered menacingly at each person walking past. I took a quick photo and left them to it.<br />
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There were many nestboxes scattered throughout the reserve, but walking past one of them hanging on a tall oak tree I heard a frantic cheeping coming from inside. Retreating to a safe distance so I wouldn't disturb the parents, I waited and watched while both blue tits went about the business of bringing up their kids.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQiM7-dQdUtg0PAyp39Dg6hnnGDqsoM5IycSPkJKno61CeTZBvwLJgsopWOZPZeBWXUIZlazokY41RKuFHuD8jDrFoGlg4CtQ-xcVKC__eAlRw98oe4o2Gc0ACGib5Ran5v39S5IJk2J7/s1600/DSCF1293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQiM7-dQdUtg0PAyp39Dg6hnnGDqsoM5IycSPkJKno61CeTZBvwLJgsopWOZPZeBWXUIZlazokY41RKuFHuD8jDrFoGlg4CtQ-xcVKC__eAlRw98oe4o2Gc0ACGib5Ran5v39S5IJk2J7/s1600/DSCF1293.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch, anyone?</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsIPfTGkimXcPY_5h_oxTy7Pos1ihaY0hIfuDYx5qF7PSiebP5d-xAPz_DAU1WDRDjaR9rHi3dAtqdouR9BqtpsNDtPANrnLgOaRwq8AbfKLBjNZuMHSILKBg7mzXY3aB-DaDkvtb6H6G/s1600/DSCF1312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAsIPfTGkimXcPY_5h_oxTy7Pos1ihaY0hIfuDYx5qF7PSiebP5d-xAPz_DAU1WDRDjaR9rHi3dAtqdouR9BqtpsNDtPANrnLgOaRwq8AbfKLBjNZuMHSILKBg7mzXY3aB-DaDkvtb6H6G/s1600/DSCF1312.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Table for one, please</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZO_qRa36-qr2iC3W9dUXfKd1dP8HnOaH3EibOt50ZzC4nD08HHlhCVoEhL8NU-NexNuaf_TA-dkf0tnEp1K-PkTIXP2Ys9tH_8DOa50gk4UeBBftJurZwOMLejxpWCVZaVKJ_kHRlQSqj/s1600/DSCF1316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZO_qRa36-qr2iC3W9dUXfKd1dP8HnOaH3EibOt50ZzC4nD08HHlhCVoEhL8NU-NexNuaf_TA-dkf0tnEp1K-PkTIXP2Ys9tH_8DOa50gk4UeBBftJurZwOMLejxpWCVZaVKJ_kHRlQSqj/s1600/DSCF1316.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yet another caterpillar meets its doom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyA-B9PXH1A6cDrxAu4FodOWSFG23J_-SLEj4PcSy73Fo82_pjlfE_yZM7o4CNFwhH4umQ6F5anHm48s7ioEDJ4zlZXUZYZyBiU841lVCc9qJFoS8S-TfMS6rE1IsAFXtfNphyWPsGKCnj/s1600/DSCF1326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyA-B9PXH1A6cDrxAu4FodOWSFG23J_-SLEj4PcSy73Fo82_pjlfE_yZM7o4CNFwhH4umQ6F5anHm48s7ioEDJ4zlZXUZYZyBiU841lVCc9qJFoS8S-TfMS6rE1IsAFXtfNphyWPsGKCnj/s1600/DSCF1326.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feed me, Seymour!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6BrMelwG2m1tfrFN6BYDHI8DWbGsEqa04YoNzL14lx51I9zVbfnPHpyBxKDwuiKMqJT4qBgOVuT-nJqkNgk0fPQx3Qv90YKPIjNACd6SpOQt5FFaLfWiuqGWPBgSsCoqn2PmMkmP78iVb/s1600/DSCF1324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6BrMelwG2m1tfrFN6BYDHI8DWbGsEqa04YoNzL14lx51I9zVbfnPHpyBxKDwuiKMqJT4qBgOVuT-nJqkNgk0fPQx3Qv90YKPIjNACd6SpOQt5FFaLfWiuqGWPBgSsCoqn2PmMkmP78iVb/s1600/DSCF1324.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Being a parent is a dirty business: Removing a faecal sac</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdL81D81KQYOx-Lw5Siw0ireUMc6SmVcVdSOehgNNj45jckMYHA4NyQ0u2sbKLd9XExPAC_ONf5djgk1g-NSni68u9uH-wfnux51qrGIFuDN5LiyrQQS2fsVPhV-11j2y57erLZwOsfO8/s1600/DSCF1327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdL81D81KQYOx-Lw5Siw0ireUMc6SmVcVdSOehgNNj45jckMYHA4NyQ0u2sbKLd9XExPAC_ONf5djgk1g-NSni68u9uH-wfnux51qrGIFuDN5LiyrQQS2fsVPhV-11j2y57erLZwOsfO8/s1600/DSCF1327.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neverending job</td></tr>
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After snapping a few photos I moved away and visited the willow pool hide. This hide seems to be quite popular and usually has some wildlife on view, but today there were only three of us in the hide and a squirrel was scarfing down all the seed on one of the bird tables:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJrFZWsU2__TLZR6PKIWjvH25b1lF5_ZBTtWhKC7OMXzilSU765igynKo8-QQ04Ww4UKEahrkxkI7MwwMDKN3GTOJnYA7s5FP5jIq64tWVkRhr1dolZOvFrNfa2GIr4hvf2B5oVELJxOi/s1600/DSCF1334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnJrFZWsU2__TLZR6PKIWjvH25b1lF5_ZBTtWhKC7OMXzilSU765igynKo8-QQ04Ww4UKEahrkxkI7MwwMDKN3GTOJnYA7s5FP5jIq64tWVkRhr1dolZOvFrNfa2GIr4hvf2B5oVELJxOi/s1600/DSCF1334.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grey squirrel</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIYifgDeXUNuIKIm-0d55G2oIAe3wx8aDbIeoZktRktdcPgAxvQZf1OW-xWPph5g46LSHWGhtj_Vzp2UW_M7z_tiyq6FVh-i6cDKDzNE-gcQVpQrIZXWqtV6-cJc43_AeZzfm86kD3XRHC/s1600/DSCF1329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIYifgDeXUNuIKIm-0d55G2oIAe3wx8aDbIeoZktRktdcPgAxvQZf1OW-xWPph5g46LSHWGhtj_Vzp2UW_M7z_tiyq6FVh-i6cDKDzNE-gcQVpQrIZXWqtV6-cJc43_AeZzfm86kD3XRHC/s1600/DSCF1329.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male reed bunting</td></tr>
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There was also a reed bunting glaring suspiciously towards the hide, and a great tit making short work of the peanuts in the feeder near the trees.<br />
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A kind man told me about the pair of kingfishers in the trees over the Mother Drain, which is basically just a long, straight stretch of water. They appeared to be nesting and weren't going anywhere, so several of us got a good look at them. Unfortunately they were too far away and too obscured by the vegetation to be able to take a half-decent photograph, but at least I got to watch them through my binoculars.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7y9VoDtx-pej3KRKMj2bjm9luFzu09-m3whVV0dD5Xl3JaNaJtDtXQ7Ah4ZpTLgSAvHGkH2LLIy66VSTlt_ZZ00Z_JJp_HXVOCRhsSKC7WBeYXUd0GcqLOCwDB7Fn8SIUvovjCyuD3rqr/s1600/DSCF1342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7y9VoDtx-pej3KRKMj2bjm9luFzu09-m3whVV0dD5Xl3JaNaJtDtXQ7Ah4ZpTLgSAvHGkH2LLIy66VSTlt_ZZ00Z_JJp_HXVOCRhsSKC7WBeYXUd0GcqLOCwDB7Fn8SIUvovjCyuD3rqr/s1600/DSCF1342.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canada goose family</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqf_3xPuh2EpLQbzXKYDLHfGfv3_S3TCM1BlA_JPgOGkIceFkQJWjOYtBF4prIsQqKYd8OKY6t_Ai0YbimeWPBjZcIBO9P0zCHrjv02gLG1yO-hM2n4gArbXeh0I0EoUV3yJhFYRzPEJxj/s1600/DSCF1344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqf_3xPuh2EpLQbzXKYDLHfGfv3_S3TCM1BlA_JPgOGkIceFkQJWjOYtBF4prIsQqKYd8OKY6t_Ai0YbimeWPBjZcIBO9P0zCHrjv02gLG1yO-hM2n4gArbXeh0I0EoUV3yJhFYRzPEJxj/s1600/DSCF1344.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goose-lings</td></tr>
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I wanted to visit the stalls again and buy some of the wildflower plants that had caught my eye earlier. As I turned the corner though I realised I was going nowhere fast, as the goose family were waddling down the road in front of me. They were having a whale of a time, drinking and paddling in a puddle whilst once again their parents stood over them protectively. I inched past slowly, tucking myself well into the grass verge on the opposite side of the road so I wouldn't startle them. Having eased my way past, I headed straight for the plant stall and bought a large selection of plants. I don't entirely trust my wildflower seeds to grow this year, as for some reason my plant-growing skills are sadly lacking. Hopefully I won't kill this lot of plants off.<br />
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I spoke to a couple of the volunteers manning the stalls and got some information on becoming a volunteer myself at the nature reserve. I felt like I actually fitted in here, walking around in my walking trousers, boots and baggy top; in my own eyes, dressed sensibly for whatever the weather may throw at me, but once back in Rotherham amongst the throngs of people in the town centre, dressed rather strangely as I don't dye my hair bright blond, plaster my face with warpaint or wear brightly coloured clothes like most people my own age.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRsosGXzDHT1lC91Mw3s0qL0AK-YfPUYPIFdJytr00toBNyABzjii7OZOXkf9EEkjp12R_G5ff6i2pS8_Ckv3oo8_i_DssL0-pbgrceBr6RLVMrIdNFh6HBCjLIzbXcczbb3ARPHvENoeC/s1600/DSCF1346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRsosGXzDHT1lC91Mw3s0qL0AK-YfPUYPIFdJytr00toBNyABzjii7OZOXkf9EEkjp12R_G5ff6i2pS8_Ckv3oo8_i_DssL0-pbgrceBr6RLVMrIdNFh6HBCjLIzbXcczbb3ARPHvENoeC/s1600/DSCF1346.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wildflowers on the grass verge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnPjPu3aZViGe130OAVVjwb7O9dP-UxIxhKDf2cuzbZd6HoaZygd2Yeo3_U78n47IkyQgzq76g6TL6nK9tWiG-hzzKnJO_Cd_ycGKqLTbNBDEildysRSh-jwrvNTRT4nzuOsAL33jZBJ6/s1600/DSCF1347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwnPjPu3aZViGe130OAVVjwb7O9dP-UxIxhKDf2cuzbZd6HoaZygd2Yeo3_U78n47IkyQgzq76g6TL6nK9tWiG-hzzKnJO_Cd_ycGKqLTbNBDEildysRSh-jwrvNTRT4nzuOsAL33jZBJ6/s1600/DSCF1347.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poppies nodding in the breeze</td></tr>
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The grass verges near the bus stop opposite the nature reserve are full of poppies, oxeye daisies and other wildflowers. I hope my own garden becomes as colourful as that this year. I found I had to reluctantly drag myself away from the reserve and start heading home, even though I had spent five and a half hours there. I need to visit these places more often, they are such a tonic for so many things.<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-31331996178192484742014-05-20T10:49:00.000-07:002014-05-20T10:49:13.640-07:00The Great Glen Way: Day six - Drumnadrochit to Inverness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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This was the last day of our walk. As the week went on, I was excited as each day drew to a close about being one day closer to the finish. Yet as I woke this morning, to the rather unnerving sound of horses galloping close by, I found myself reluctant to leave my sleeping bag and feeling slightly melancholic. However when my watch showed the time was half seven, I decided it was time to get up. I opened both zips on the tent as quietly as possible, trying not to disturb the other campers. I rather missed the solitude and privacy of wild camping, but at least this site had showers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TUNWcFBwzXEUxDZ7ipvkoqsIvarLLhy-ijLNkHkvMtUVcT7fEwsqIFlKKnpv-NXy8s9KG_ya-4Y_0ju7LJjGHlk9CsHi7mJN0W88QEPt_gOPwSH3pfLtVg2GDtqkYNKLPN5ASfSsyfnI/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TUNWcFBwzXEUxDZ7ipvkoqsIvarLLhy-ijLNkHkvMtUVcT7fEwsqIFlKKnpv-NXy8s9KG_ya-4Y_0ju7LJjGHlk9CsHi7mJN0W88QEPt_gOPwSH3pfLtVg2GDtqkYNKLPN5ASfSsyfnI/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+268.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning, campers!</td></tr>
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Last night whilst washing and showering before bed, the hot water caused my nose to bleed. Now I know I have a fairly sensitive nose, but I think it's slightly abnormal for a nose to start bleeding just because you washed your face. It finally stopped before bed and this morning I gingerly washed my face again, checking for signs of blood. Fortunately there were none so deciding it must have been a one-off I packed our tent away for the last time, as that night we would be staying in a B&B, and we were off.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Floral Urquhart Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17NKraNbmx4H5_my34ZI0Ii_zhvjlcIpFOREw-OMQ-TW7hGOXDW-aBLClkLodj34oOJ8JteCR8p53jUro-Y4SOqkLxytE8IVJ9l5EFFfE4xjmhWVc1C6C_2whcfr1Fckz1hCXFpp0W21Q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj17NKraNbmx4H5_my34ZI0Ii_zhvjlcIpFOREw-OMQ-TW7hGOXDW-aBLClkLodj34oOJ8JteCR8p53jUro-Y4SOqkLxytE8IVJ9l5EFFfE4xjmhWVc1C6C_2whcfr1Fckz1hCXFpp0W21Q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+283.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the real thing</td></tr>
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As<i> </i>I still had no way of lighting my stove I was relieved that a cafe was open in Drumnadrochit for breakfast. I ordered the most delicious vegetarian fry-up with Quorn sausage and devoured it sitting outside in the glorious sunshine with Sybil. In the cafe I noticed a bookshelf full of books and a notice above saying that the books were on sale for £1 each and all proceeds were to go to an animal charity. I bought a book by an author I liked (it's a shame I couldn't have carried more) and feeling happy, fed and charitable we turned right out of the village along the road. We had a slightly later than planned start at 10am but after roughly forty minutes of road slogging we finally turned into the woods where there were views of Urquhart Castle in the distance.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urquhart Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUIhTzuzH1VM-NSXurKPntMoMRiG6LYA6-M6TV1Bt3i0CoWovxACGTjfWAvxIfnTb0S5RJ0-K1CTZXkvEMiAnUA6E3MbIJwwDmUyYabo_OufW_-pBKj0vovkLIZ7AF_qi21f5PxMJdyZCu/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUIhTzuzH1VM-NSXurKPntMoMRiG6LYA6-M6TV1Bt3i0CoWovxACGTjfWAvxIfnTb0S5RJ0-K1CTZXkvEMiAnUA6E3MbIJwwDmUyYabo_OufW_-pBKj0vovkLIZ7AF_qi21f5PxMJdyZCu/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+287.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Through the forest</td></tr>
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Sybil spied another red squirrel in the trees and telling her to leave it we headed up through the cool, dense forest. The day was starting out to be really warm and I was glad of the shade provided by the conifers. The path was really steep in places as it zigzagged up through the trees. Perhaps the walk was finally taking its toll on me as the backpack seemed to weigh a ton, and indeed I had to have several rest stops after each steep climb. Sybil, bless her soul, kept checking to see how I was and every time I sat down, came and sat at the side of me. Towards the end of each day Sybil had also started feeling the miles, but today she seemed to have recovered and was happily tearing back and forth between me and the path in front.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Odd one out</td></tr>
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The long climb mostly over, we bumped into a total of eight walkers in a space of fifteen minutes. One group of them recognised us from the first day back near Gairlochy and we had a chat about how we had all fared. They had chosen a slightly different approach for the last day, by taking a taxi out and walking back to Drumnadrochit. I mentioned that one of my boot laces had snapped an hour or so ago, and two of them immediately offered me their spares. I told them thanks but I'd be fine, managing to tie it temporarily and thinking how nice people out walking were compared to the other tourists in Fort Augustus and, no doubt, Inverness.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_ZqQ2OdSdxGIybtaiMRAzIzQ29jypuBQ_dfPbAvI-oNU2JpjLaFZ8lHwQ6r4nJmRg58kYZfgxNpmkI-Zc95_YCVaNYP5nNCfoKZBzWzu9WWF70vrP7CEEWJXOjuxwJhkVV1dS4yVOww1/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_ZqQ2OdSdxGIybtaiMRAzIzQ29jypuBQ_dfPbAvI-oNU2JpjLaFZ8lHwQ6r4nJmRg58kYZfgxNpmkI-Zc95_YCVaNYP5nNCfoKZBzWzu9WWF70vrP7CEEWJXOjuxwJhkVV1dS4yVOww1/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+291.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farewell, Loch Ness</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEGDbPnE-8FN4cHwHTXgvhpyTQkNhUPhoRJdKS_TT_6quT8X7SkC6elEnncVLPWev06bnyxz20Lvw7gW_sdtOwhhPyDjeAH6FvIkT4xfomgbKzfByGNH8-uDW0tjdw2s8FpgG_L1bYv1W/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEGDbPnE-8FN4cHwHTXgvhpyTQkNhUPhoRJdKS_TT_6quT8X7SkC6elEnncVLPWev06bnyxz20Lvw7gW_sdtOwhhPyDjeAH6FvIkT4xfomgbKzfByGNH8-uDW0tjdw2s8FpgG_L1bYv1W/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+292.JPG" height="60" width="320" /></a></div>
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The forest gave way to moorland after giving us our last views of Loch Ness. We had the route to ourselves again as we passed through a large metal gate and into Abriachan Forest. I was ready for a rest and sat down on a conveniently-placed boulder at the side of a large pond. Looking at my watch I realised it was already half past twelve and we still had a huge amount of distance to cover. Today's walk was quoted in my guidebook as being eighteen miles long, but several people on the internet have said it is longer, more like twenty-two miles. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTqAgOmGBLdgTM3ApdKV2C_JnEFjnS6XgARTLcAlpz8K5s-wf7I4WVP7nxsWqjIKVCiz1azDp0PTSaaf4XfqBIohGJzR0gFrgc2kp3WT2LKXFIQ9bA-5gOnll7hF-g1ZGOnVWZnkZWBnE/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTqAgOmGBLdgTM3ApdKV2C_JnEFjnS6XgARTLcAlpz8K5s-wf7I4WVP7nxsWqjIKVCiz1azDp0PTSaaf4XfqBIohGJzR0gFrgc2kp3WT2LKXFIQ9bA-5gOnll7hF-g1ZGOnVWZnkZWBnE/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+299.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a long way to Inverness</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxhZ4lJ9Zl9oKboXKk_0S4GMznCUt7uVNQlLx2aR1T0BRhZpUWptydunUh2hKp9rlDX6FDHfDMfxfg9mQZ4Vh4oOIjxHeSwBD2XQwk3BUMPdabx3z-Twxd3U0kGT93aySSJckbzQaUyejZ/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxhZ4lJ9Zl9oKboXKk_0S4GMznCUt7uVNQlLx2aR1T0BRhZpUWptydunUh2hKp9rlDX6FDHfDMfxfg9mQZ4Vh4oOIjxHeSwBD2XQwk3BUMPdabx3z-Twxd3U0kGT93aySSJckbzQaUyejZ/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+304.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More mountains</td></tr>
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In fact we weren't even halfway, as a nearby signpost informed me. At least most of the climbing was done now and I started to pick up the pace a little. We past a sign declaring this was the highest point of the footpath; at first glance I thought the sign said "Can't get lost". I found myself wondering if the sign-makers were aware who was reading the sign, then I realised what it actually said. Better get my contact lenses checked.<br />
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I actually believe that back home my family and friends were placing bets all week on how long it would be before I did get lost. Getting lost is something that happens quite frequently to me, as those of you who read these blog posts regularly will know. Whoever placed their money on me getting lost on the first day to Gairlochy, you can collect your prize now. There was a slight "detour" just before pitching my tent that first night, but I soon put us right.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIfOlU77OMs97kkh5vYermJEpX5iOFHI4HHCw1v8gUeixWQYzwyHJ8flAOynDMytnJJSHTxvM7xy0qkwLrqI9xLCEXx9jO2YV1AG4nTittK8QGsllOXt9SeZ1Y_QwYzb7TqUzWS_rZcf6q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIfOlU77OMs97kkh5vYermJEpX5iOFHI4HHCw1v8gUeixWQYzwyHJ8flAOynDMytnJJSHTxvM7xy0qkwLrqI9xLCEXx9jO2YV1AG4nTittK8QGsllOXt9SeZ1Y_QwYzb7TqUzWS_rZcf6q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+311.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abriachan Eco-Campsite and Cafe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLwWRQVBYXZ8PsP52PC8HnYxh58rM9LwIn4J52Es6_T_QgUBHz6Ztisw3UGbyEmcp3X_-uPh6hxembusKpgrc3Afv352t0oH_eUFAwMJFYP_nEvM_eie9e8FAMFVJ6fQWaz5mk__ZECMX/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLwWRQVBYXZ8PsP52PC8HnYxh58rM9LwIn4J52Es6_T_QgUBHz6Ztisw3UGbyEmcp3X_-uPh6hxembusKpgrc3Afv352t0oH_eUFAwMJFYP_nEvM_eie9e8FAMFVJ6fQWaz5mk__ZECMX/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+313.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most delicious snack-stop of the trip</td></tr>
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Fighting through some trees that had little idea about giving a walker some personal space, we stumbled upon several wooden signs guiding us to a cafe, each promising a different tasty refreshment. I think I would pass on the bovril and ovaltine, though. I leashed Sybil and followed the woodchip path to an eco-cafe with a wonderful host. I bought a hot chocolate and the lady came back with a huge mug of the delicious drink and some yummy homemade snacks on the side. Sybil took advantage of the break for a drink and a lay-down.<br />
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It had by now turned 2pm so we picked up the pace again and finally hit the road I believe the lady from the day before was telling us about. It was a quiet road, but long and harsh on the feet. The only vehicle we met during our road slog was a huge logging truck. On either side of the road was heather moorland, with good views over to the left of Ben Wyvis. I'm not sure if it was down to altitude, although we weren't that high, or something in the air but all of a sudden my nose began to bleed badly again. Luckily I had plenty of tissues with me and walked along for ages with my head tilted slightly back and my nose buried in tissue. It seemed it would never stop and I had visions of arriving in Inverness looking like a cheap extra for a walking dead film.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmE9ge_WY12I0c6sftZQ9h-nF1LUcYzETBYMx1IqWYyaRmHqIHhyr8vz7olMevIUBjD5CynvAJVPN6eHgaBmGkfC0SQIOaAmK5CrUNC2HB5NY5SQy__hwdNrBpp1SUJ5YHhcnvY21e2ING/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmE9ge_WY12I0c6sftZQ9h-nF1LUcYzETBYMx1IqWYyaRmHqIHhyr8vz7olMevIUBjD5CynvAJVPN6eHgaBmGkfC0SQIOaAmK5CrUNC2HB5NY5SQy__hwdNrBpp1SUJ5YHhcnvY21e2ING/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+314.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The road slog ends!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitg_zNhA2AZphSbc0M3ZFXdroC0rE9kakctbgNHZYUGDlVU083-fNM_602DeKFvSitOqUHU_RbQKhNvxLd-chpkDIHvvUNUjJF7A-Vcj54tNCXTI_XNyI3vwUQJCai0b17B8Mkzps7DB3Q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitg_zNhA2AZphSbc0M3ZFXdroC0rE9kakctbgNHZYUGDlVU083-fNM_602DeKFvSitOqUHU_RbQKhNvxLd-chpkDIHvvUNUjJF7A-Vcj54tNCXTI_XNyI3vwUQJCai0b17B8Mkzps7DB3Q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+316.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Male reed bunting</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4setVec1jZsMnR3d7Dyax6AN41ni7WQc89O25VRbFSE2DgIb29W8uUv4gf5h6FwPbgK0UFoxqEGhc45ojX0yM-Hfr8kDr4wvdQ_7tvB4Z8Jkj37oowEIL9TnjcCrmanfStcxNzLfNYh2/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim4setVec1jZsMnR3d7Dyax6AN41ni7WQc89O25VRbFSE2DgIb29W8uUv4gf5h6FwPbgK0UFoxqEGhc45ojX0yM-Hfr8kDr4wvdQ_7tvB4Z8Jkj37oowEIL9TnjcCrmanfStcxNzLfNYh2/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+319.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not long now</td></tr>
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The road slog and nose bleed finally both began to cease as I noticed a left fork heading parallel to the road over more moorland and finally into forest again. We followed an old drovers' road through a mixture of trees including Scot's pine, rowan and birch. A couple of the conifer trees I passed looked as spiky as the gorse bushes that were also common on this walk. I went up to one and gently touched the needles, but surprisingly they were quite soft to the touch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZqPAvT3xqECztWoaQQp-70EukXbtaQdkp6INWk71CAOUfmvUjViSp6cvec3NpEQbst5I3xC95O2r3MIKz6Mm8W0yqAhGnZYl72pdimhJfId1BmzI-DivqfKmKW2-Z5_gVKzm3hBykZ65/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWZqPAvT3xqECztWoaQQp-70EukXbtaQdkp6INWk71CAOUfmvUjViSp6cvec3NpEQbst5I3xC95O2r3MIKz6Mm8W0yqAhGnZYl72pdimhJfId1BmzI-DivqfKmKW2-Z5_gVKzm3hBykZ65/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+324.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bilberry bush in flower</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2TOBTdifSQgCLA5CRklK7bSaI0OcEYEFnsu5clMVuNxotY6FRSBO5x7LX2ftV3cABOdvpcV4y96GDM_SzsKcXvCjB03vEADPxbsDV0I7zvGN2ktEkWKBzM9LV0kgzbKWBzwhE6mMcXSv7/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2TOBTdifSQgCLA5CRklK7bSaI0OcEYEFnsu5clMVuNxotY6FRSBO5x7LX2ftV3cABOdvpcV4y96GDM_SzsKcXvCjB03vEADPxbsDV0I7zvGN2ktEkWKBzM9LV0kgzbKWBzwhE6mMcXSv7/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+325.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beauly Firth: We are getting close now</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I was really enjoying this part of the walk; the trees were quite thinly planted so plenty of light filtered through, yet there were enough trees to still give one the feeling of solitude I often feel when walking in a woodland. There was a delightful drystone wall to my right with moss and bilberry growing upon it. Making the most of the weather butterflies were fluttering all over the place, landing and feeding on the plants at the side of the path and chasing each other through the dappled sunshine. I recognised mainly small white butterflies and the occasional green-veined white. </div>
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Eventually through the trees to our left we caught a glimpse of the Beauly Firth. Excited that we were closing in on Inverness I looked at my watch and realised that we would not be at the B&B for 4pm, as I had told the owner. I called her and explained we were still a few miles away. She was fine with that and told us that once we finished the walk at the castle, if I visited the pub opposite and told them I had walked the Great Glen Way I would receive a certificate. I thanked her and we focused on finishing the last few miles. We left the wood through a gate and were directed down a path between yards and yards of gorgeous yellow gorse bushes.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc33GZgqLk-_Qan8kvwwhC3szA8od6wB5LmkcJNjrTMCqlXUceSQxBBEGi6UPpuq7WaW4VQwmh7o7kXFGx3uzU6fNpB6h2_JweQspihb3byxF_wAYaa05Jr43Qypp6O0xdRi6st6BcINDH/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc33GZgqLk-_Qan8kvwwhC3szA8od6wB5LmkcJNjrTMCqlXUceSQxBBEGi6UPpuq7WaW4VQwmh7o7kXFGx3uzU6fNpB6h2_JweQspihb3byxF_wAYaa05Jr43Qypp6O0xdRi6st6BcINDH/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+330.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picturesque pond among the gorse</td></tr>
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Suddenly we turned a corner and there, to our right, was the wonderful sight of Inverness. I gave a huge whoop and start laughing with delight, much to Sybil's bemusement. We were so close now; there was no way we would not finish this walk. The sight of the city gave me the last push needed to ignore the blisters and burning pain in my feet and the weight of the backpack dragging me down. We followed the path through the gorse bushes, winding slowly down towards civilisation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inverness!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cheerful almost-end to the walk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only four miles to go!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><br /></td></tr>
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People started to appear on this attractive stretch above the city; joggers out listening to their Ipods, couples out for a gentle stroll and children walking with their families. The weather was glorious, blue skies ahead with not a cloud to be seen. We saw another red squirrel in the trees shortly before leaving the gorse to hit asphalt as we reached the outskirts of Inverness. Crossing a busy road we threaded our way through suburban parks and footpaths, passing houses and ducking through a subway until we emerged by the familiar canal again. Eventually we found the River Ness, where we crossed a footbridge and headed for the B&B where I would drop my backpack off then finish the walk to the castle. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPFG__9MlxhbyRNw7cYefv4vRF7v9QKfYz7t_w7cVlZoi0lRGIYTQcxrQwNhXi-bQK42LfVXIfxI7GDiEXnakDnWC-3UldH1wvjfcW3sQIDXHnF0koODcPzen1-JOesQH3VylqYVrf9GL/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPFG__9MlxhbyRNw7cYefv4vRF7v9QKfYz7t_w7cVlZoi0lRGIYTQcxrQwNhXi-bQK42LfVXIfxI7GDiEXnakDnWC-3UldH1wvjfcW3sQIDXHnF0koODcPzen1-JOesQH3VylqYVrf9GL/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+337.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The River Ness</td></tr>
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As I expected here in the city it was every man for himself and, unlike ourselves, people seemed reluctant to give way or even to obey the signs and dismount from their bicycles whilst crossing the footbridges. Luckily I have trained Sybil out of lunging and barking at bikes as she did when she was an unsocialised young rescue dog, but we still didn't appreciate them rushing past us with no warning on a narrow bridge. I found myself wishing I was still up on the forest paths but didn't let it spoil the bubble of euphoria that was growing inside of me at having so nearly finished the walk.<br />
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We got a little lost whilst trying to find Cavell House but another quick phone call soon got us heading in the right direction and we were welcomed warmly and shown to our room with a four-poster bed and some dog biscuits set out ready for Sybil. After dumping most of my gear down, we set off for the castle before we could get too comfortable and spent some time taking end of walk photos and admiring the tame wild rabbits that hopped around the tourists' feet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhpMkghn7GfzxELdN1mSINmPIADhE5lum2emBBv-tIihNL6w_5h13-Np5asXKAxaLsXHV05sRnkxMNp8agCe9_gKb8B2ds1Ra0rsaaHEezVFeFSqw6QjENSoX7DiHB5NMaKyB7pTOFwKS/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhpMkghn7GfzxELdN1mSINmPIADhE5lum2emBBv-tIihNL6w_5h13-Np5asXKAxaLsXHV05sRnkxMNp8agCe9_gKb8B2ds1Ra0rsaaHEezVFeFSqw6QjENSoX7DiHB5NMaKyB7pTOFwKS/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+343.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We did it! At Inverness Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3dMZqys4cPdA_2MaUPdq1D-eZyZtLSNXkguTJ-XEaqofpc4rNzzW5UJx3vaItP1Tmlgu6506l7DaVSp86rcLdjAS28zRXI9e8tEa5YbyutUv9MiZ4_FNkHb4UHJmuMOqqBvDbhZNEPSf/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_3dMZqys4cPdA_2MaUPdq1D-eZyZtLSNXkguTJ-XEaqofpc4rNzzW5UJx3vaItP1Tmlgu6506l7DaVSp86rcLdjAS28zRXI9e8tEa5YbyutUv9MiZ4_FNkHb4UHJmuMOqqBvDbhZNEPSf/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+376.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sign for the end (or beginning) of the Great Glen Way</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby wild rabbit</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2JxUIiEbJiZFNPLY9fisSKVub1NycCrMb5zijkJumHXtHuCE29k6oA66_yoNBxkOFSIhaNVGxyZZMfvE79Kulo9O5toEqBhr_nTkK7efPYbO4qWqdUPI0isrYg5sAyW0d5ZL0uf3vXfZB/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2JxUIiEbJiZFNPLY9fisSKVub1NycCrMb5zijkJumHXtHuCE29k6oA66_yoNBxkOFSIhaNVGxyZZMfvE79Kulo9O5toEqBhr_nTkK7efPYbO4qWqdUPI0isrYg5sAyW0d5ZL0uf3vXfZB/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+361.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mum wild rabbit</td></tr>
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The other tourists eventually drifted off to wherever they were staying for the night. I feel I attracted a few strange looks for my dishevelled hair, muddy trousers and grubby, sweat-stained face but I really didn't care. I had walked all the way from Fort William and that was a massive achievement for me. There were a couple of times on the trip when I thought I wouldn't make it and wanted nothing more than my own bed, but as the days went on I enjoyed being so close to nature and feeling part of an exclusive club, the Great Glen Wayers. Other people have walked for much longer distances and over much more difficult terrain but I'm sure the sense of achievement when you get to the end of wherever you are walking is much the same.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZ-g0_aFeVURoSqBR9Fk8iQBuAdKDcVS0qYACLnVEbqUTltL9D8fO3zWWDXdd_suSAAar7_yaiq4i5tEfoTEoilvrK4YvE653XVdUfyhov8ZZjX5ajL7sbYv3EDUugyUwf73kcdhSorZ4/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZ-g0_aFeVURoSqBR9Fk8iQBuAdKDcVS0qYACLnVEbqUTltL9D8fO3zWWDXdd_suSAAar7_yaiq4i5tEfoTEoilvrK4YvE653XVdUfyhov8ZZjX5ajL7sbYv3EDUugyUwf73kcdhSorZ4/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+355.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Ness from the castle, and looking back towards the Great Glen</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvdIOxkgE0t9XzGf7GR_cYBF4cJO73eZUQtVtd-XlcfwtTkDeJvpQKolhYhQYQNLWpj19OX0KJD_IOtnZZ2BSS6sPJSDH0fJqJ_f_ehqNlMCEKHHSzCGpQ2MbU3zu2wosRMW5I1Pi88MO/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvdIOxkgE0t9XzGf7GR_cYBF4cJO73eZUQtVtd-XlcfwtTkDeJvpQKolhYhQYQNLWpj19OX0KJD_IOtnZZ2BSS6sPJSDH0fJqJ_f_ehqNlMCEKHHSzCGpQ2MbU3zu2wosRMW5I1Pi88MO/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+381.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Ness in the city</td></tr>
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We limped across the road to the Castle Tavern where I bought a pint of Pepsi and asked about the certificate. Whilst I was waiting for it I had a chat with one of the staff about the walk, who had done it himself. I finished my drink outside with Sybil and we soon headed off back to our bed for the night. We both had one thing on our minds: sleep. And a nice long hot shower for me.<br />
<br />
In the morning after my delicious breakfast of tattie scones with cheese and tomato we headed straight for the train station after a quick walk for Sybil. Although Inverness is an attractive city with its sandstone buildings and with the river running through its heart, I just couldn't warm to it. I don't know if it was because I was away from the generous walkers I had gotten used to or because the lack of green spaces for Sybil in the morning and evening before bed (we passed Whin Park on our way into the city, and a sign outside declared No Dogs), but I had little of the melancholy I felt the morning before back at Borlum Farm. I would miss the lochs and the forests, along with the satisfying solitude I had for most of the walk, but who knows? Perhaps this long distance walk will be one of many Sybil and I will complete in the future.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkAYEELAnhcsxf8jlTI_r8aYnkaSQsG59-Zg9m8w_0P1vvx7GdKXV6RqblLSQr-5KlwvkU_Q-b_GwWk61s9yadcoqLHr_g_HMIRzPFAUbi-EAbeij_v8C-6HdsELXjS6J7V-guj4UwP8r/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkAYEELAnhcsxf8jlTI_r8aYnkaSQsG59-Zg9m8w_0P1vvx7GdKXV6RqblLSQr-5KlwvkU_Q-b_GwWk61s9yadcoqLHr_g_HMIRzPFAUbi-EAbeij_v8C-6HdsELXjS6J7V-guj4UwP8r/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+345.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tired at Inverness Castle</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-5484402199795631382014-05-19T13:55:00.000-07:002014-05-19T13:55:02.324-07:00The Great Glen Way: Day five - Stone Seat, Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit<br />
I was woken at what I assume was shortly before dawn, when the night was still black enough so I couldn't see the time on my watch. A quiet bubbling sound was coming from behind the tent, which I quickly realised was the sound of a black grouse. It seems I had rather stupidly pitched my tent on or near a lek. This is a site where these rare birds perform their courtship display, rather like the red deer stags sizing each other up and battling to acquire a harem of females.<br />
<br />
I could hear the birds' wings flapping very close to my tent and although I would have loved to see this wildlife spectacle from a reasonable distance, I resisted opening my tent to have a peek as, truth be told, I was a little scared. I had visions of the fairly big, stocky birds peering into my tent and pecking at me. Well, with all that testosterone flying around you never know what might happen. So I decided to sit tight and not disturb them, eventually drifting back off to sleep.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNumkhXn6HKUYMkgtWI1W3TiZ0h_xdmu3dIBWwNzbgqxW_jbWHb-k-4VXSO32176bjcU7sojcrgllPieTXB0Il42R0fB5jVm0IFN0aUCgiKfISI-954ZsGC-CgQyJ7dNvflR67qvrda5IB/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNumkhXn6HKUYMkgtWI1W3TiZ0h_xdmu3dIBWwNzbgqxW_jbWHb-k-4VXSO32176bjcU7sojcrgllPieTXB0Il42R0fB5jVm0IFN0aUCgiKfISI-954ZsGC-CgQyJ7dNvflR67qvrda5IB/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+200.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our way</td></tr>
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My next alarm clock was a song thrush perched on a tree next to my tent, uttering his cheerful if repetitive song and rousing us both from a pretty deep sleep. Again there was a light shower whilst I was getting us both ready for today's journey, but it soon ceased and after stuffing yet again a wet tent into its bag (it is rather difficult) we had a quick breakfast before getting an early start. Unsurprisingly things didn't go to plan and there was to be no hot drink for me, as last night I stupidly put the matchbox (brand new, bought in Fort Augustus) down on the bench, only it landed straight into the pan of water I had ready for boiling. I had flashbacks to that morning at Clunes when my stove only just managed to light, but this time I got not a spark from the matches and eventually decided to give it up as a bad job and got moving.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScMgSkalgKLTYCHDpXuK8QMvFyDtpqpQzDF80kggwgLR0jaUU4xK8hqZFOw_6LI7Uc98AFqTO9tKwRl6Aulv4SgzhWvn7D83uDu18YASbM1bdaXVZtnjSyG3muGw-pPzEMMLejP4wPBx0/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScMgSkalgKLTYCHDpXuK8QMvFyDtpqpQzDF80kggwgLR0jaUU4xK8hqZFOw_6LI7Uc98AFqTO9tKwRl6Aulv4SgzhWvn7D83uDu18YASbM1bdaXVZtnjSyG3muGw-pPzEMMLejP4wPBx0/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+204.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Stone Cave</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSLQ1DsIEENkXw0GJvGnEmDGZfuH3tHhMXD9fMiG81wrMJD53Vk9RS2EKKi9sgUziZhWKjhMQTxa5TTzu5yhxV1KNrgaGETBdSIyMySIY1ii3D7nP8pgBlO-iSWwoO9VbOWklw_rPCwli/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSLQ1DsIEENkXw0GJvGnEmDGZfuH3tHhMXD9fMiG81wrMJD53Vk9RS2EKKi9sgUziZhWKjhMQTxa5TTzu5yhxV1KNrgaGETBdSIyMySIY1ii3D7nP8pgBlO-iSWwoO9VbOWklw_rPCwli/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+207.JPG" height="60" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Ness</td></tr>
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We soon passed the Stone Cave, which apparently was built as shelter for a washerwoman on her frequent journeys between the villages. Luckily this morning we didn't need shelter as the sun was out. The track once again ran between trees, both deciduous ones such as birch and oak as well as conifer trees. I occasionally caught a wonderful wild, almost spicy scent which I assume came from the pine or cedar trees.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgduKSWo8tXfF6E4s4gCa6OZ1KoT87csenWg6-FieQxrwDiUvGD15Wo3Lk7C3EB9MMOpRTcOkbffbaUKlzDmzgiHA-Wqb_EcOSBRpucX8Pj9eg-RtTDGsnpDF3yCHfDDkmb5xKgxxjnaCf/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgduKSWo8tXfF6E4s4gCa6OZ1KoT87csenWg6-FieQxrwDiUvGD15Wo3Lk7C3EB9MMOpRTcOkbffbaUKlzDmzgiHA-Wqb_EcOSBRpucX8Pj9eg-RtTDGsnpDF3yCHfDDkmb5xKgxxjnaCf/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+219.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting to climb</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5N-e4bPNUOgarAFTuMZxdAYTShNjFRhWsPakHrQNRSLkIse4pDkLNQ_AgbT9HLxuDyBU0dli5Jb8O2Bkxvfmv_xA1IMLpSB4um7vN9KC9yOSQ_xQPyVYZUn_wluQACMXot63lXYXiyWX/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5N-e4bPNUOgarAFTuMZxdAYTShNjFRhWsPakHrQNRSLkIse4pDkLNQ_AgbT9HLxuDyBU0dli5Jb8O2Bkxvfmv_xA1IMLpSB4um7vN9KC9yOSQ_xQPyVYZUn_wluQACMXot63lXYXiyWX/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+224.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back over Loch Ness</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAL1ro5b68tkjZxmGExsrlvcg6TmK5Qd_qfejPUWRVZXhyyhqxQPFdkJFIp0q-OhI977K8L7mRdHC-uUcUAebG3QJIFlS7BnYXGeBsy8AFcpDKuLRCaJTsg8O5Qlhkm8e0rfBWCLM2ZIae/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAL1ro5b68tkjZxmGExsrlvcg6TmK5Qd_qfejPUWRVZXhyyhqxQPFdkJFIp0q-OhI977K8L7mRdHC-uUcUAebG3QJIFlS7BnYXGeBsy8AFcpDKuLRCaJTsg8O5Qlhkm8e0rfBWCLM2ZIae/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+232.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another willow-chaff</td></tr>
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There were great views over Loch Ness at one point, and turning round as I heard a bird calling high above me I noticed a steep cliff about 400m high clinging onto an impressive amount of trees. I believe the birds were ravens and they seemed to be mobbing a bird of prey that was possibly a buzzard. I didn't have room to take my binoculars on the trip, which was a shame as I'm sure there would have been much more wildlife to see if I had.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WS9Fc-UU2gedKs3cBgWEjaeVIQ1nBDvO-CLVVl5QnAZun5fio3qmlef_R8dYPT5kD3JftCs90z0O5dYvuPavcxziGhwqfYdzihWHTsyXJrVMWhPTwObz1bM7BkUlah6Ea0WmMOIW-1XX/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9WS9Fc-UU2gedKs3cBgWEjaeVIQ1nBDvO-CLVVl5QnAZun5fio3qmlef_R8dYPT5kD3JftCs90z0O5dYvuPavcxziGhwqfYdzihWHTsyXJrVMWhPTwObz1bM7BkUlah6Ea0WmMOIW-1XX/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+233.JPG" height="90" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Ness</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguuR6BZpxn0BdvBsbw8J4R2CgZU2QQv5dH2CXCSpsMaILC55jnl6tPkl4q3uEPhl_APFQFJsPdiL6OAJIy-Fnwk7mo7m3zDfhpMrYYGdK74E879keJ3b1AEMKdWUlqyR4mh-uxt03O01_/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguuR6BZpxn0BdvBsbw8J4R2CgZU2QQv5dH2CXCSpsMaILC55jnl6tPkl4q3uEPhl_APFQFJsPdiL6OAJIy-Fnwk7mo7m3zDfhpMrYYGdK74E879keJ3b1AEMKdWUlqyR4mh-uxt03O01_/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+236.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunday sailing on Loch Ness</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcI_5qTUdPWOxamTZSVBzUrBFfJX46m7GbFejiBwdND_6fNfTwq3jNm97KcMjU0Ncb5cOV2GvJoDpUuDGC8ZgY-8llvTN0UZNx-y2i4aqHrowJwUKVFU8lFsi6f-f9sVF_bRPTJl1g63X/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQcI_5qTUdPWOxamTZSVBzUrBFfJX46m7GbFejiBwdND_6fNfTwq3jNm97KcMjU0Ncb5cOV2GvJoDpUuDGC8ZgY-8llvTN0UZNx-y2i4aqHrowJwUKVFU8lFsi6f-f9sVF_bRPTJl1g63X/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+244.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back again</td></tr>
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The path started to climb pretty steeply after passing Alltsigh, zigzagging up the hill and amongst the conifers until the views over the loch became better and better. This was easily one of my favourite walks of the trip. The loch stretched away into the distance and also in front of me, indicating that there was still a while to go yet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFvzXMgibcATuUdsLV2vFdUaHEqoLRzeAkF5OmwMtslwZDLQF2OpOUZIE5qko77KiTk6nEo1QN8xcjmbBgjJ-sz4hwjIZXQjfXFPmLWHcOueafmOfNBcU4zyE68qQ9OlSr4Jo5dp1FCFg/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFvzXMgibcATuUdsLV2vFdUaHEqoLRzeAkF5OmwMtslwZDLQF2OpOUZIE5qko77KiTk6nEo1QN8xcjmbBgjJ-sz4hwjIZXQjfXFPmLWHcOueafmOfNBcU4zyE68qQ9OlSr4Jo5dp1FCFg/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+248.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterfall</td></tr>
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At this point another walker passed me, a man not much older than myself also heading towards Drumnadrochit that day. As the path climbed higher and higher we kept overtaking one another as each of us stopped to catch our breath. I stopped to take some more photos before the trees engulfed us, erasing our views of the loch. The Way now wound through trees, passing a couple of pretty waterfall before spitting us out across the loch from Foyers where we stopped to have a rest.<br />
<br />
Suddenly I wondered what had happened to the man we passed with the yellow raincover on his backpack. I had already become somewhat fitter on our walk as my body got used to the ridiculous weight of my backpack each day and I had managed to overtake several walkers on some of the days, so how come this guy had disappeared into the blue yonder? Perhaps the Loch Ness monster had eaten him. Or he had just put a sprint on to get away from the likes of me and Sybil.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0eFvIydooUk4Wlq4-NMcSQOvK0y5OHGvliuUui-XXQLL4tOMwX9vfrn_Uy99syJdzTz_qMaQgqTYyYxs_dhNemNdgXZKufcFC4T6eYykCMGlI5EfECF0p-pUr3DodqAyn96p7x9oqawO/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0eFvIydooUk4Wlq4-NMcSQOvK0y5OHGvliuUui-XXQLL4tOMwX9vfrn_Uy99syJdzTz_qMaQgqTYyYxs_dhNemNdgXZKufcFC4T6eYykCMGlI5EfECF0p-pUr3DodqAyn96p7x9oqawO/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+260.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They smelt delicious</td></tr>
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We met a fair few walkers heading in the opposite direction to us today. One of them, also a lone woman walker, warned us that the final day into Inverness was a big road slog. Hmm, something to look forward to then. Well she was in for a treat later today as the views over Loch Ness we had gloried in a couple of hours ago would open up right in front of her, instead of having to look behind her as I had done.<br />
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The last stretch of track through the trees was easily the most amazing smelling, even stronger than earlier on in the day's walk. Several of the trees had been chopped down; I wonder if that's why the scent was so strong? Either way, I could stand there all day and bask. Sadly though I didn't as Drumnadrochit was waiting for us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJ5y_xCB2C6kRXuOBEHd9rQqOrGqATWOCdgdjHp3wJadXlJwAAu3Nww0KRYt4XOGTTDPIcsYxnOqPvpMRTIbA6pZ0AjBZPeUF-9ErbqWZGJT8MvGik-6DMoR1yenuT4pfHmBLOFCelo7h/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJ5y_xCB2C6kRXuOBEHd9rQqOrGqATWOCdgdjHp3wJadXlJwAAu3Nww0KRYt4XOGTTDPIcsYxnOqPvpMRTIbA6pZ0AjBZPeUF-9ErbqWZGJT8MvGik-6DMoR1yenuT4pfHmBLOFCelo7h/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+263.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the hill Meall Fuar-mhonaidh (bless you)</td></tr>
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We soon reached the tiny civilisations of Grotaig, Balbeg and Ancarraig where the fun ended. Onwards from here the road went on, and on, and on...so much so that I took my guidebook out twice to check we were heading the right way. Thankfully the road wasn't busy, but Sybil was still on-lead and with our water running low and our feet complaining we started sniping at each other. It was a huge relief when I finally spotted a sign directing us off the road through a wood, where Sybil gleefully disposed of her lead and I spied an welcome sight in the distance:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHO1MRZpcUTfeDoqiJvE6lLjF-wK2B6JrVp1NSR1PaLUCzkUWd6i0PJ2LZAvz8BsLrf7OL011ei0SGEAlfN0L6hzpHTNcON3z7ghNSfeEdD11OEfiEGaqg9o3YQzQlmWcFocKIFxafsed/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHO1MRZpcUTfeDoqiJvE6lLjF-wK2B6JrVp1NSR1PaLUCzkUWd6i0PJ2LZAvz8BsLrf7OL011ei0SGEAlfN0L6hzpHTNcON3z7ghNSfeEdD11OEfiEGaqg9o3YQzQlmWcFocKIFxafsed/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+266.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lewiston and Drumnadrochit</td></tr>
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The village of Lewiston was the nearest to us and it was here we would hopefully camp for the night. Both villages are pretty tiny so are all just one really, but it felt slightly bigger than it should whilst I was looking for the campsite. Yet again just as we reached the village the heavens opened. Sybil quickly dove for cover in a nearby bus shelter and I put on our coats as we waited for the rain to ease a little. Unable to find Borlum Farm I asked a local couple, who said I was heading in the wrong direction and wanted the other side of the village. Well, what's a couple more miles to us seasoned walkers? <br />
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We found the farm with little more trouble and I booked us in at reception, whilst skilfully blocking Sybil's view of the rider-clad horses. I pitched the tent in a field where there were two other campers. Returning to the campsite that evening after tea I noticed two more tents had been set up in our absence. Before turning in for the night I was half-hoping for a Great Glen Way sing-a-long around a cosy campfire, but we had no such luck. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-54856109550213491042014-05-18T11:15:00.000-07:002014-05-18T11:15:03.960-07:00The Great Glen Way: Day four - Fort Augustus to Stone Seat, Invermoriston<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mNgQSjhIWBtdkLtGkvwDTIz70h-haGSmRqKUVf8SUZ5lX_p-1EhYF6m5IUam4_d6yW4Mr5n3czPgG5chAcvWn9KvVY175sAnSpDytlcFLOR2G2Wo_5vFFhBa0b3lwKfqUObi1fVFoaJr/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
I woke up in a nice, soft bed after a great night's sleep. I quickly showered and dressed before packing up my bag and leaving Sybil with the TV on, I headed down to the breakfast room. I was staying at the Kettle House B&B and the breakfast was delicious with veggie sausages amongst all the usual breakfast items. The owner, Natalie, also gave Sybil a treat and one for the road as we bid our goodbyes and started off on our walk again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDbJPe2Vtu_x1xSOexDMrUaah7Q_UKUOuJtxiNElHZ_i-ib2P7sqOFOYMKFzmHAbeEAouss69RsmV9s63jTigiD_XGlpLEsI5oPTMKpdggeXGk0m9pTXWvWqo5_N36rDgncYkjLB1u1SoD/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDbJPe2Vtu_x1xSOexDMrUaah7Q_UKUOuJtxiNElHZ_i-ib2P7sqOFOYMKFzmHAbeEAouss69RsmV9s63jTigiD_XGlpLEsI5oPTMKpdggeXGk0m9pTXWvWqo5_N36rDgncYkjLB1u1SoD/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+115.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush forest</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nsYqJnKioEftAh9h1paMa8JdyFEq_1GpT8clxv-X5D3y6wAW3YTj7wRijWXNcKXkhbKxhLKXhyYwVzY3L9kv7jziOabH7zVviyHL5RgshyAJgj5-r9gZhSRLk_dn8BoR5vHdB8_l9mNM/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nsYqJnKioEftAh9h1paMa8JdyFEq_1GpT8clxv-X5D3y6wAW3YTj7wRijWXNcKXkhbKxhLKXhyYwVzY3L9kv7jziOabH7zVviyHL5RgshyAJgj5-r9gZhSRLk_dn8BoR5vHdB8_l9mNM/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+113.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woman of the woods again</td></tr>
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The Way left Fort Augustus by threading through several more B&Bs before turning off onto a forest track. The rain was only coming down lightly, so I left just my fleece on as the temperature was quite warm and I didn't want to swelter inside my waterproof.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSDP1qU9DmlVE01YIhcpwcJxi_bseTGG06ilpWUgCeN9D2mqxCMqI9HCqx4agNkQ_oFgxaK8gpmwL58c_9yiyYer87riIyWq-kRYLXkFQa1f-iNwnKmFwyuia3cI7zcOLA7VIwJLvlUUB/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSDP1qU9DmlVE01YIhcpwcJxi_bseTGG06ilpWUgCeN9D2mqxCMqI9HCqx4agNkQ_oFgxaK8gpmwL58c_9yiyYer87riIyWq-kRYLXkFQa1f-iNwnKmFwyuia3cI7zcOLA7VIwJLvlUUB/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+119.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Ness</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6945w5zpWUDcrMotT8ZtR3e33jWHQIA2nzVUx7f9UlPspv-5RvmNmnq_VTWHasjj0Y2JDNcPU8Xle0J1ddzUYtZCqojIIEoa8w-Y54fhp9h3rtZVLVBHmJtl9rY66rWX-m0GL5Og5nfS/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6945w5zpWUDcrMotT8ZtR3e33jWHQIA2nzVUx7f9UlPspv-5RvmNmnq_VTWHasjj0Y2JDNcPU8Xle0J1ddzUYtZCqojIIEoa8w-Y54fhp9h3rtZVLVBHmJtl9rY66rWX-m0GL5Og5nfS/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+120.JPG" height="60" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking over Loch Ness</td></tr>
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After climbing through the lovely trees we finally gained a great view of Loch Ness. The Loch is huge and we would never see the whole of it in one go; in fact the next two and a half days would be spent walking mostly alongside it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLy8pqd1yGzvE8g81hCAj4YuT2ge3uN5TF7OImmZkmQ0y6R0kCRMZ8INLKDRH41tI8h_Q3MUSY4S8JgTmJuw3oDbX57nc9KIykZxZOuz7K5zdO8CyL6rxI87JeZZmfmR412lng64shmHn/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLy8pqd1yGzvE8g81hCAj4YuT2ge3uN5TF7OImmZkmQ0y6R0kCRMZ8INLKDRH41tI8h_Q3MUSY4S8JgTmJuw3oDbX57nc9KIykZxZOuz7K5zdO8CyL6rxI87JeZZmfmR412lng64shmHn/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+122.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sybil likes the view</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nd3gwxdUIB3jnH4poqhjNvzwUAP5c9RlXF88UqACwVXuVRhbzh7JJ660TtxEelYUPnKPEpfO5RCFAPaj_SUA8_FEdfq4_T1UGQMQJsdXMxBJIOS8gHBBA40O5TO1Fht_51IHU0ULXNmw/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nd3gwxdUIB3jnH4poqhjNvzwUAP5c9RlXF88UqACwVXuVRhbzh7JJ660TtxEelYUPnKPEpfO5RCFAPaj_SUA8_FEdfq4_T1UGQMQJsdXMxBJIOS8gHBBA40O5TO1Fht_51IHU0ULXNmw/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+131.JPG" height="90" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Ness</td></tr>
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The path wound round the loch just above the road, with trees sometimes blocking the view of the loch but nonetheless still making it an enjoyable day's walk. As I was standing reading an information panel, I heard voices to our left and Sybil cocked her head then came and sat at the side of me as I have trained her to do when someone is passing, but impressively this time without me asking her to. I took hold of her harness in case a dog was coming, but instead it turned out to be a group of horse riders. Sybil is fine passing horses in a field, but for some reason she usually freaks out if someone is riding one. This time however she sat quietly if a little tense.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YE62wwcVKTnUQi2yAqLobo5i2ZYUfuAAPkBX82ANf6gr0WuiXdwF_ynnK6eT908jn7lRVmJGXA927WDaloWNSQeOUK8fZB_Ajcw5pjltMb9QOq95RY2QpuhI2OeRD_pUecIUpsJrQh0J/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4YE62wwcVKTnUQi2yAqLobo5i2ZYUfuAAPkBX82ANf6gr0WuiXdwF_ynnK6eT908jn7lRVmJGXA927WDaloWNSQeOUK8fZB_Ajcw5pjltMb9QOq95RY2QpuhI2OeRD_pUecIUpsJrQh0J/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+132.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There were some lovely waterfalls</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mNgQSjhIWBtdkLtGkvwDTIz70h-haGSmRqKUVf8SUZ5lX_p-1EhYF6m5IUam4_d6yW4Mr5n3czPgG5chAcvWn9KvVY175sAnSpDytlcFLOR2G2Wo_5vFFhBa0b3lwKfqUObi1fVFoaJr/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-mNgQSjhIWBtdkLtGkvwDTIz70h-haGSmRqKUVf8SUZ5lX_p-1EhYF6m5IUam4_d6yW4Mr5n3czPgG5chAcvWn9KvVY175sAnSpDytlcFLOR2G2Wo_5vFFhBa0b3lwKfqUObi1fVFoaJr/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+135.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IB1JjNZxf_PGZ6Ojk3DF1g8qw6KT0qCRnIxuYsm8MZnm2qgz8HWR_kospAU7pypNfBVv1GXbOzMkJD5QksQ4LKRv-wjPWny2MuNX7YqJlcUgbdPXpHMqrVGZiNLngY7OkY4z2gflGsvQ/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IB1JjNZxf_PGZ6Ojk3DF1g8qw6KT0qCRnIxuYsm8MZnm2qgz8HWR_kospAU7pypNfBVv1GXbOzMkJD5QksQ4LKRv-wjPWny2MuNX7YqJlcUgbdPXpHMqrVGZiNLngY7OkY4z2gflGsvQ/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+136.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCHmfNb8Hsomz3uC-y4sTh1VKtuiVNwhs7Ma9G9dwGO1v9x7ZpgrBWcNXJAqanXWzkdCRUmi9Vi5j4RmZ47YZX_fXoYrLp3s264jgE-O6prKsdi5OE_0KS_vErGKL7gYg6zvuqh9bcWLa/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbCHmfNb8Hsomz3uC-y4sTh1VKtuiVNwhs7Ma9G9dwGO1v9x7ZpgrBWcNXJAqanXWzkdCRUmi9Vi5j4RmZ47YZX_fXoYrLp3s264jgE-O6prKsdi5OE_0KS_vErGKL7gYg6zvuqh9bcWLa/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+140.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching the boat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7UXg7CzUrQeGtcFC8G2ckg4c_136ATL3n2OGaFhieMNwvDi5Vj6F2cifDRo3Ij_U0Mb-KkKFXre3ft3TOn_08VGKgH0H1jCQmZnhql5qn-6UmUci3qu1w4jxDl-0arO-Ndo3n-6EaeRm/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7UXg7CzUrQeGtcFC8G2ckg4c_136ATL3n2OGaFhieMNwvDi5Vj6F2cifDRo3Ij_U0Mb-KkKFXre3ft3TOn_08VGKgH0H1jCQmZnhql5qn-6UmUci3qu1w4jxDl-0arO-Ndo3n-6EaeRm/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+142.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Towards Invermoriston</td></tr>
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Praising her enthusiastically when the riders had trotted off, we carried on with our walk, passing several beautiful waterfalls. Suddenly out of the trees a man appeared with his dog. Sybil greeted her cautiously and they had a little play while us grown-ups chatted about our walk. The lucky man had moved to the area from near Manchester a few years ago and now ran a B&B. He wished us luck with our walk, also warning us about the wild board that lived in the area. Apparently they are more shy than aggressive and unfortunately we didn't see any, which may have been just as well for Sybil's sake.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDZElcleADg17hiOQ7UhQGFShyxt77mZIPVlB_DmmlTAeBNf7PVzVqhnOfzJy7ZnEF8E2JhBpEa0f9NjIURUpSoKmMpAgbOakY1vbI9qC9kQeNpEyyrcZAb9nLWulIx_6pbE4-PV1Ts4Q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDZElcleADg17hiOQ7UhQGFShyxt77mZIPVlB_DmmlTAeBNf7PVzVqhnOfzJy7ZnEF8E2JhBpEa0f9NjIURUpSoKmMpAgbOakY1vbI9qC9kQeNpEyyrcZAb9nLWulIx_6pbE4-PV1Ts4Q/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+145.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry Sybil, no squirrels here</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZHmRemZK-ls1U3hc38qn3RCoDTW-lRVCUS6tUHHtXTShhKcir5nQ4MsjwPaC69Jn6JEsOVlHsCV9dCpuWDPtHCBwNCntPNbl4NADI8CypPpj8P6rVghO6KACwHS7xDS-4G5bB_Foxxby/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZHmRemZK-ls1U3hc38qn3RCoDTW-lRVCUS6tUHHtXTShhKcir5nQ4MsjwPaC69Jn6JEsOVlHsCV9dCpuWDPtHCBwNCntPNbl4NADI8CypPpj8P6rVghO6KACwHS7xDS-4G5bB_Foxxby/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+147.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of these though</td></tr>
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The rest of the walk was peppered with diversions as forestry work was being carried out. We followed the first sign down a rather steep, slippery path and back up again before carrying on along the main path. As the path turned inwards away from Loch Ness we had to follow two more diversions, both of which again were muddy and pretty steep.<br />
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The last diversion met with a path which then took us down to Invermoriston where the rain once again decided to soak us. For some reason this was starting to become a pattern; just as we reached the outskirts of a village, the rain would come down hard. I wasn't complaining, as long as we stayed dry for most of the walk.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDcm9I-W8g9LP9RMYNQAAk6nL_kkRpG7-ZUwNx8iggUrIgux26znYDUcftOUr7WiEyWR3qv70h1R2WztqssyWH9csUXfzgDxHH4oc0E3sM0X0QmMyCABoiZYElHnQS2Z-ZVr0unanwDa-I/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDcm9I-W8g9LP9RMYNQAAk6nL_kkRpG7-ZUwNx8iggUrIgux26znYDUcftOUr7WiEyWR3qv70h1R2WztqssyWH9csUXfzgDxHH4oc0E3sM0X0QmMyCABoiZYElHnQS2Z-ZVr0unanwDa-I/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+149.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slow worm</td></tr>
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I spotted something lying still on the road and crouched down for a closer look. It was a slow worm. I gently picked it up and moved it to the grass verge, where it slithered away to safety. I was pretty excited as I have never seen one before.They are not a species of snake but rather a legless lizard, and perfectly harmless.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQP36KV1TmffecudpjjZj7_tK7fhMnKwwJH1SNXIQg7lJ_08v8SdmBgQ4xSEPzZSJedwAX6w_ASz9EwrccKBECGmRRkg13YYZhRg2AVw2uRcULCjph-EP7GqpdAZKJoCSh6uMbyH9LzNr/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKQP36KV1TmffecudpjjZj7_tK7fhMnKwwJH1SNXIQg7lJ_08v8SdmBgQ4xSEPzZSJedwAX6w_ASz9EwrccKBECGmRRkg13YYZhRg2AVw2uRcULCjph-EP7GqpdAZKJoCSh6uMbyH9LzNr/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+152.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Packhorse bridge</td></tr>
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We had a quick hot drink and snack stop before heading out of the village to find somewhere to spend the night. The shop claimed it sold hot pies and pasties, including delicious cheese and onion. Lies, all lies. There was nothing hot save the drinks, so I settled for a hot chocolate and a sausage roll for Sybil.<br />
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Just as the Way climbed steeply into the woods, a B&B sign beckoned to me, claiming that it was dog friendly and had vacancies. I hovered for a bit, extremely tempted to go and ring the doorbell. I eventually decided not to as I was probably just spoilt after last night's luxury.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0pf_GsOq6IEW9F7f3M0PJQkrYGM4ZCCzuGpz5URiVvN4ibIpdMtO8OeXFRDmKJJs9NupsGJMSy9Q62JGld-kEWz5q_uCDfNpV-dAQqyjAsBiF8_woRBDdFr7udldxJJ7-KAdymIwrw4i/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0pf_GsOq6IEW9F7f3M0PJQkrYGM4ZCCzuGpz5URiVvN4ibIpdMtO8OeXFRDmKJJs9NupsGJMSy9Q62JGld-kEWz5q_uCDfNpV-dAQqyjAsBiF8_woRBDdFr7udldxJJ7-KAdymIwrw4i/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+159.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Stone Seat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH35xNpg-JD2JVvOQXE7_nSDcBs8GWt1d8qVdr1rVbh4eqtQcZYMX0DQ_5c5vA6Kv9GBKzhJoAWDlfPPH66q2eka0dJQpNHiRCIpoDRKZ-B18i98lfZtdNJp8AAMzMNJGrWRmD7IWj5HIR/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH35xNpg-JD2JVvOQXE7_nSDcBs8GWt1d8qVdr1rVbh4eqtQcZYMX0DQ_5c5vA6Kv9GBKzhJoAWDlfPPH66q2eka0dJQpNHiRCIpoDRKZ-B18i98lfZtdNJp8AAMzMNJGrWRmD7IWj5HIR/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+170.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Stone Seat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG21uHXGZ1ikgytptCjlwYef5Sd0C-2Poc3ED6Yil8cyRlM-f7U3r96mwzX1KNxBoVrnVRMWgR8UESbwhSIPlkPvDMywpIs7e_RyGJMF5cR4LEFSpkizeOw1_qRFFXuFs6YwqMXEr4Lv4_/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG21uHXGZ1ikgytptCjlwYef5Sd0C-2Poc3ED6Yil8cyRlM-f7U3r96mwzX1KNxBoVrnVRMWgR8UESbwhSIPlkPvDMywpIs7e_RyGJMF5cR4LEFSpkizeOw1_qRFFXuFs6YwqMXEr4Lv4_/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+172.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazing view from the Stone Seat</td></tr>
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As we were walking along I noticed a sign pointing slightly off-route to the Stone Seat. Slightly curious, I decided to go and have a look. It was a short but steep climb up a heather-clad path and the views from the top were amazing. I sat there for a good while and decided this was where we would spend the night, as just behind the seat was a tent-sized cleared area and the remains of a campfire. It was still pretty early, only half past two, so I waited a while before pitching the tent and instead aired my sleeping bag and waterproof things as the rain had finally stopped.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzB-oaCIWshefj-YBpHCovkBrm6qayYvC-sVBsLeMveSE0oKfmjACep8iW1zw8qh_oVjjmZX7LPTR_-e6OsuJiA7Wrp3hyphenhyphen4H1ca07v-p_hsTCjTjdrBjjoamfdWGWOVDHqULnaiG1KbM-D/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzB-oaCIWshefj-YBpHCovkBrm6qayYvC-sVBsLeMveSE0oKfmjACep8iW1zw8qh_oVjjmZX7LPTR_-e6OsuJiA7Wrp3hyphenhyphen4H1ca07v-p_hsTCjTjdrBjjoamfdWGWOVDHqULnaiG1KbM-D/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+166.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you, Kettle House, for the chew</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZttM_4SBbWuwwqKbULvRFuON7PMldGdBIJG_xFdStpWByuB4hlCpCd_zxCzb2FDMULes0C_C-x4VzLxFjMB9pNIOgM36gv-D1IX3hol3vJSxqdUZ0L45Sa5PCOZJo22lFY75jZ6KESBT/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZttM_4SBbWuwwqKbULvRFuON7PMldGdBIJG_xFdStpWByuB4hlCpCd_zxCzb2FDMULes0C_C-x4VzLxFjMB9pNIOgM36gv-D1IX3hol3vJSxqdUZ0L45Sa5PCOZJo22lFY75jZ6KESBT/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+184.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guess I'm sleeping alone in the tent, then</td></tr>
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The cuckoo was calling constantly and provided a nice soundtrack as I set the tent up. I opened both the entrances up to let the flysheet and groundsheet dry inside. I sat on the bench and just relaxed, enjoying the fantastic views and listening to pure nature around me. From this spot you could only see forest, Loch Ness and the mountains beyond, no signs of civilisation at all save the tiny boats that kept appearing on the loch from time to time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdumJO21dkyjPepoz4zALu7Ay5PdLJRFLIislUwkBoJTFvyhstAR8sftdROgrrt2Uhc2USIc1A4HQNo_1VSL30uuYoy2h4cFwewUDai86X4YeHJZTxZrI5QaupiGSmM8-chS1hER3qj7T/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqdumJO21dkyjPepoz4zALu7Ay5PdLJRFLIislUwkBoJTFvyhstAR8sftdROgrrt2Uhc2USIc1A4HQNo_1VSL30uuYoy2h4cFwewUDai86X4YeHJZTxZrI5QaupiGSmM8-chS1hER3qj7T/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+194.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for bed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dtWZQDTsEvkNLg7Wo9QHANfPAg84EJJhBRVGEvKqEmIfJmle_oYIat9Ynasi4drrdTndXLggFNhVAa8rqQx6uNt32riU5BtfTGfSzzM4YiKD-ASOfE2oqnfMQ_NoSsdLN0_SX1AfVIgj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2dtWZQDTsEvkNLg7Wo9QHANfPAg84EJJhBRVGEvKqEmIfJmle_oYIat9Ynasi4drrdTndXLggFNhVAa8rqQx6uNt32riU5BtfTGfSzzM4YiKD-ASOfE2oqnfMQ_NoSsdLN0_SX1AfVIgj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+188.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stranger in the night</td></tr>
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Turns out it wasn't such an idyllic spot after all, as when stroking Sybil whilst sat drinking in all the nature I found a tick buried in her flesh. Luckily I had come prepared and used a special tick remover to get the little beast off. I hate killing things but I really had no choice as I didn't want it to make Sybil or myself poorly. Tucking my trousers firmly into my socks we eventually retired to the tent, where I found two more ticks climbing on Sybil's fur. I removed these as well and we watched the night draw in. Two large black beetles wandered towards the tent but I'm afraid there was no room at the inn.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-12983017422827582652014-05-17T12:32:00.001-07:002014-05-17T12:32:45.598-07:00The Great Glen Way: Day three - North Laggan to Fort Augustus<br />
Last night was quiet and peaceful in my little tent. When I finally managed to make Sybil come in, anyway. We had walked around ten miles the day before, yet whilst I was setting my tent up and for around two hours after she was investigating and sniffing the long grass and trees nearby and ignoring me when I called her, which is not like her at all. At least she seems to be enjoying the holiday.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56AE8Hx1yMBIdD5keH32xA_jl2dMeIFkrTw9jaotsG2jfnGe-eBQwphACewvrelqI_FFfe2ELT5a-ibf9c5JFgweHYH8Mmj9vlWQ5aQi8jnxshFVKJnxkgjcn3ytFcVKo8IaMDTFpzEd8/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56AE8Hx1yMBIdD5keH32xA_jl2dMeIFkrTw9jaotsG2jfnGe-eBQwphACewvrelqI_FFfe2ELT5a-ibf9c5JFgweHYH8Mmj9vlWQ5aQi8jnxshFVKJnxkgjcn3ytFcVKo8IaMDTFpzEd8/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+064.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do we have to get up, mum? It's raining.</td></tr>
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I heard more tawny owls calling to each other again during the night. Sybil also kept growling quietly whenever a nearby pheasant crowed, even though she's heard them hundreds of times before. Townie dog.<br />
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We awoke again to the sound of rain at quarter to seven, but hoping it might just be a quick shower I washed and started to pack ready for an early start. Sure enough the rain stopped soon after we set off and the sun started to shine through the broken clouds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgun4VciYbUbSYA_uh4sefqusE7Vtujpb6Vsdo5k8h2jq-WZMfMZdDqAAeJF47BR8bcKPyPLF0vtWrqnkn19nmRklhRjFhWl0aAtlCVuHS-tpbuqqdi7UZ0CqdEA3YZkHyicNT9hBg-03ag/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgun4VciYbUbSYA_uh4sefqusE7Vtujpb6Vsdo5k8h2jq-WZMfMZdDqAAeJF47BR8bcKPyPLF0vtWrqnkn19nmRklhRjFhWl0aAtlCVuHS-tpbuqqdi7UZ0CqdEA3YZkHyicNT9hBg-03ag/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+065.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View opposite our campsite</td></tr>
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I really enjoyed the first part of the walk through a lush, green nature reserve. My guidebook says it is called Leiterfearn Forest Nature Reserve and it was here we saw our only roe deer of the trip. I startled it on the bank to the left of me, where it bounded up the slope and stopped to look back. I fumbled for my camera but unfortunately the deer was already disappearing into the trees before I could set the darn thing up. Never mind, to see it was a privilege in itself.<br />
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Another wildlife encounter occurred shortly further down the path as I nearly stepped on a tiny mouse. Luckily I saw it at the last second and I stood to one side while it scurried away into the grass.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWWjiNuOxbWtX5l-cxXMxjU0zmmIaBuWorVVyC62mPqQ6Q5nSDKKvmZhJhOx_uP9FgdULePy1r8n9OBtl1f6vFa1S7XfAokzgZOkt0uNzCfng6gpO7uLrdyDUNvFOxPeNZJ1FeUCoU98d/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWWjiNuOxbWtX5l-cxXMxjU0zmmIaBuWorVVyC62mPqQ6Q5nSDKKvmZhJhOx_uP9FgdULePy1r8n9OBtl1f6vFa1S7XfAokzgZOkt0uNzCfng6gpO7uLrdyDUNvFOxPeNZJ1FeUCoU98d/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+071.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goose family</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There were swallows flying low over the grass and swerving just at the last second so they didn't crash into me. Back on the loch I noticed a goose family, I think they were Greylag geese, swimming on the water. They were quite far away so excuse the poor picture, but they were still lovely to watch.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPhzNRQwXQy1WO5my2apGYfS1B04cBXKdvVqI3j74lashM1Q6LqVQUhooNPmpvh7Tr2EYnQvC_9rMBCwxU3ssVw-_ccGOOoefSIx_SGLO8g5Lc4wF-MBI4R7q_1fMpIcWiGzOS1ovoj7P/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPhzNRQwXQy1WO5my2apGYfS1B04cBXKdvVqI3j74lashM1Q6LqVQUhooNPmpvh7Tr2EYnQvC_9rMBCwxU3ssVw-_ccGOOoefSIx_SGLO8g5Lc4wF-MBI4R7q_1fMpIcWiGzOS1ovoj7P/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+074.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridge of Oich</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfFZa5U5GIK6og1BQSzjKnGpmKvnNS3YV_mx4U6rh2SyU0kWy-pqeQSaDAYwD9l0srvKJzDNVNcwtgH93UrNM4-EVqLRtD9qpbaXAthV9D0JVyQkPJkzj1prt8bvT5NzVBhHtZd7gM3Zj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfFZa5U5GIK6og1BQSzjKnGpmKvnNS3YV_mx4U6rh2SyU0kWy-pqeQSaDAYwD9l0srvKJzDNVNcwtgH93UrNM4-EVqLRtD9qpbaXAthV9D0JVyQkPJkzj1prt8bvT5NzVBhHtZd7gM3Zj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+077.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oystercatcher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbS7TWpORTbSHquMn_QhUKW1Rm6QVQtFrD86ybGzOe_sf-rLujs-gMQB6T_2eR3jKRsFktNKwDNozQONRA8kiaF60pblO_Rcz7kUapC2sSl9Ocjw3zrH2UlGXzA5a3cr90NnQOwRYuKwrK/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbS7TWpORTbSHquMn_QhUKW1Rm6QVQtFrD86ybGzOe_sf-rLujs-gMQB6T_2eR3jKRsFktNKwDNozQONRA8kiaF60pblO_Rcz7kUapC2sSl9Ocjw3zrH2UlGXzA5a3cr90NnQOwRYuKwrK/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+075.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oystercatcher</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We soon reached the main road and crossed, first making a short detour to see the Bridge of Oich. We were back on the canal towpath now, having come to the end of Loch Oich, and an oystercatcher flew down to land on the opposite bank. Other birds I saw often flying low over the water with their three-note call were sandpipers.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiThQ5VFT0x6gDDJFfQHQ3ShuImPYzleFCQst24ZQyKlEg189rleWlIx06KpogxEHXQucMbUyGeZr4WvbqkDeGHwsVXesXwLEq_r73c16RTNwecvC2tJ-Clrgk9V4ipINXK3inboY5LBDxj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiThQ5VFT0x6gDDJFfQHQ3ShuImPYzleFCQst24ZQyKlEg189rleWlIx06KpogxEHXQucMbUyGeZr4WvbqkDeGHwsVXesXwLEq_r73c16RTNwecvC2tJ-Clrgk9V4ipINXK3inboY5LBDxj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+078.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cullochy Lock</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUgNYQ_F1GpwweSrt9m4IqSQvpov1fqMwKTGZgExWJcDntZyGxZAgN7tEKS_lwbu6jJWKYFQW4qz5IQGxCXaZRC_COHRoLGK-3aQO5pPZT8uMEGygMKOzSJ4i7LFlo_ZXuH71zWyEuvBh/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUgNYQ_F1GpwweSrt9m4IqSQvpov1fqMwKTGZgExWJcDntZyGxZAgN7tEKS_lwbu6jJWKYFQW4qz5IQGxCXaZRC_COHRoLGK-3aQO5pPZT8uMEGygMKOzSJ4i7LFlo_ZXuH71zWyEuvBh/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+081.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Willow-chaff?</td></tr>
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So far today we hadn't seen a soul but not long after stepping onto the towpath we saw two young men with a Labrador heading in the opposite direction to us, also camping by the look of their backpacks. Sybil was fairly happy to see another dog, as we hadn't met many during our walk so far.<br />
<br />
The birds in the nearby trees were pretty tame, and I managed to stand and watch the above bird for quite some time. Willow warblers and chiff-chaffs look almost exactly the same to the untrained eye, and it is only by their song you can tell the difference. Unfortunately this one didn't feel like singing today, so I named it a willow-chaff.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoLBeJXESCqvZsDZRwi1jfaF6o8FXAtLs2QcPtsCKx59DRXLwqYTxaO8NOCpZOnN08XV8Qem8r-ic36wH71gf99wKuaDBKFvcv8Kbwof0qWcWVcKVtSwclc7kGUWOq0Jt2qk-TLyroM46/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoLBeJXESCqvZsDZRwi1jfaF6o8FXAtLs2QcPtsCKx59DRXLwqYTxaO8NOCpZOnN08XV8Qem8r-ic36wH71gf99wKuaDBKFvcv8Kbwof0qWcWVcKVtSwclc7kGUWOq0Jt2qk-TLyroM46/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+083.JPG" height="60" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Caledonian Canal</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7JycfsT5OuS3fOpwjAVp7Eie8K5zr4KGJRsQhxh4zZdTu3GLDP_E8Dbn1dWO-egFFd63MPsMLsuZuQZjhi1zNYLC2T05mDCwXPXTenr9QeRfNf2nn9phQ13CEoqwunfmWkGu2NhCD1Jj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7JycfsT5OuS3fOpwjAVp7Eie8K5zr4KGJRsQhxh4zZdTu3GLDP_E8Dbn1dWO-egFFd63MPsMLsuZuQZjhi1zNYLC2T05mDCwXPXTenr9QeRfNf2nn9phQ13CEoqwunfmWkGu2NhCD1Jj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+085.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kytra Loch</td></tr>
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The sun was well and truly out now and we enjoyed strolling along sans waterproof coats for a good few hours. We passed Kytra Lock where the lock-keeper was tending his garden and stopped to have a pleasant chat with him, whilst Sybil said hello to his dog. Luckily I've learned the technique of relaxing the lead if a dog comes over to her whilst she's on-lead, as otherwise she will kick off and try to eat the dog, as she's a tad reactive. <br />
<br />
We carried on along the towpath with the canal on our right and the River Oich on our right. The guidebook states that today's walk is excellent with the glen close either side; frankly I found the beginning of the walk through the nature reserve much more pleasant, and not just because of the encounters with the mouse and deer. I found that my favourite walks of the week were those that included plenty of forest tracks.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2rJYjWuU_FeFDoQeooflbYfyslLj8n1EeZxq4X9_ZLo9xVBMGb_W_d-kIV-fV3O0DSqjXbPKf1qRo-9ahWOu5kgiyUw_sI4ZUzf4aDrYXIDdRR6Mg2RA3lC78sbmh3q8AlhKh6Z6clkb/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2rJYjWuU_FeFDoQeooflbYfyslLj8n1EeZxq4X9_ZLo9xVBMGb_W_d-kIV-fV3O0DSqjXbPKf1qRo-9ahWOu5kgiyUw_sI4ZUzf4aDrYXIDdRR6Mg2RA3lC78sbmh3q8AlhKh6Z6clkb/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+086.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More canal slogging</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_x9BaENcy4EmvWqjUIzyWvZFroHV6QgGi5sicyzMatbMmyl_W10l2T_-r1QMjf8Sn2P6AM4DcWg7wsA7UzC9dgolV5Lry_ZY2fjjRo9m862ATWHSixDx6TboFHB0oUHX-TKFU__u05Zp/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL_x9BaENcy4EmvWqjUIzyWvZFroHV6QgGi5sicyzMatbMmyl_W10l2T_-r1QMjf8Sn2P6AM4DcWg7wsA7UzC9dgolV5Lry_ZY2fjjRo9m862ATWHSixDx6TboFHB0oUHX-TKFU__u05Zp/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+093.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Loch Ness Monster</td></tr>
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The waterway became more interesting to look at as we wandered along as we came to the part where the little Kytra Loch had been made part of the canal. There were little islands and the water took on a less uniform shape. <br />
<br />
By this point, my feet were really suffering from the last three days' walking and felt like they were on fire. I was hobbling along, thankful that today's distance was fairly short and I could rest for the rest of the day. Sybil seemed to have slowed down a little too, and took the opportunity to lay down whenever I stopped to take photos or rest myself.<br />
<br />
Having drank the last of my water, we were sat at the side of the towpath when a woman and a younger lad came towards us. She said I was looking a bit forlorn, so I explained that we were both tired and a little thirsty. She immediately offered me some of her water but I refused as she was walking to Kytra Lock herself. We had a quick chat about the wildlife and she told me that Fort Augustus was only twenty minutes away, which cheered me up a little.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqYFiVOTzgMXuHJhyphenhyphenI2f5Pj4fhpfoc-0TwCduveX_yjnAxLuDUSDET3iH_CxYquBrDIFWtrGeFIzo0pmMFx3TEXi1br8Wob7I2B48M-5uo4Q1BXDOkyz99ajxEHTIWJGq2QCzKUWHTmHgk/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqYFiVOTzgMXuHJhyphenhyphenI2f5Pj4fhpfoc-0TwCduveX_yjnAxLuDUSDET3iH_CxYquBrDIFWtrGeFIzo0pmMFx3TEXi1br8Wob7I2B48M-5uo4Q1BXDOkyz99ajxEHTIWJGq2QCzKUWHTmHgk/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+094.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fort Augustus</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLd7aesbvk5ME5TH22KCK-u_VPxZX0gEdxQ3VSxhiv6OlkJQfFTEEvaPxj_04M9wuSYe2MD1mDIAsrHe2jv_syv017sWK7j4EZaV1j-X_8kB_C8rrlCZ9pYxN0rVmKNwdt8-s0D0cl2L2m/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLd7aesbvk5ME5TH22KCK-u_VPxZX0gEdxQ3VSxhiv6OlkJQfFTEEvaPxj_04M9wuSYe2MD1mDIAsrHe2jv_syv017sWK7j4EZaV1j-X_8kB_C8rrlCZ9pYxN0rVmKNwdt8-s0D0cl2L2m/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+097.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The start of Loch Ness</td></tr>
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Sure enough it didn't take us much longer to spy the first of the houses in the village. Just as we reached the outskirts though, the heavens opened and I quickly took out our waterproofs again. Rain accompanied us for the last ten minutes of the walk, but we soon got to shelter and the rain eased a little. I visited a shop for a couple of souvenirs to celebrate reaching the halfway point of the walk.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrDEFZQNioDTXb6nzTiK7uSo9NHApWWSIlEMIuTz3I909ZKeyUPe7H3WkrRCU5y6o5WSsGJ2uD_EgR_XKI9sRXaaM1ueBJeBQjJUnKvfQmtl86L0JvTmFIZGN_MXa83gNlBVLl7xkTjWx/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMrDEFZQNioDTXb6nzTiK7uSo9NHApWWSIlEMIuTz3I909ZKeyUPe7H3WkrRCU5y6o5WSsGJ2uD_EgR_XKI9sRXaaM1ueBJeBQjJUnKvfQmtl86L0JvTmFIZGN_MXa83gNlBVLl7xkTjWx/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+104.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swallow</td></tr>
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We managed to secure a room in a dog-friendly B&B for the night. Looking forward to it, we passed a little time in the village centre before our room would be ready. I found being among so many other tourists a little uncomfortable. Up on the GGW and on walks in general, I've found, the walkers are so friendly and go out of their way to make sure they are pleasant and help you if you need it. However in Fort Augustus, I stood to one side with my large backpack and Sybil to allow a big group to pass. Not one of them thanked me or considered stopping just for a second so Sybil and I could pass. I found myself appreciating the attractive buildings and shops, but also looking forward to the morning when I could get away from the hordes again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP30YpkMPoImE3hRXqgzINu4hDXvRL0rUxNiNp7ZMRj4ZEeP31bIbOekEuwt849BEhcqzC6rH4AoQcdz26aiAZ-8_PzeVApiH0UlDm9Nv1iuz51RgM4OGcPnr8hRtCcxG5oBza-gGxxakw/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP30YpkMPoImE3hRXqgzINu4hDXvRL0rUxNiNp7ZMRj4ZEeP31bIbOekEuwt849BEhcqzC6rH4AoQcdz26aiAZ-8_PzeVApiH0UlDm9Nv1iuz51RgM4OGcPnr8hRtCcxG5oBza-gGxxakw/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+111.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our home for the night</td></tr>
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The room was gorgeous and a much-appreciated luxury. We settled down for the evening with a couple of films. Sybil was more than ready for a nap:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1iWSAJMTaroflhWiOBRbd2sMFeazP1IIRLjK6eJq39UCPP6CoSDNWYK9mk6HWXQxcbZ6ChwLQbXmANw71HwJx5OFLCXIxzSaS9vIkqn9wuqOWz6gyGzHEQJuY5rzcg_rnk1Jp_bQI8nI/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1iWSAJMTaroflhWiOBRbd2sMFeazP1IIRLjK6eJq39UCPP6CoSDNWYK9mk6HWXQxcbZ6ChwLQbXmANw71HwJx5OFLCXIxzSaS9vIkqn9wuqOWz6gyGzHEQJuY5rzcg_rnk1Jp_bQI8nI/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+109.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Within five minutes of checking in</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-30333625349603955152014-05-16T14:28:00.001-07:002014-05-16T14:28:01.675-07:00The Great Glen Way: Day two - Gairlochy to North Laggan<br />
Wednesday night wasn't the best night's sleep I've ever had. After shivering in my sleeping bag for an hour or so, Sybil and I both nearly jumped out of our skins as a huge roaring sound came out of the sky right above our heads. It must have been an RAF jet to be flying that low and fast (and loud!) but it didn't half give us a fright. The jet, or whatever it was, soon roared away over Loch Lochy and we settled down again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8rx-vKoUTmg3GvxR3JqyfmBRym0DwUlbNzvprvBFNZ-56lR_F6L7yV7swWjkTsCeNC2BkkJNZgEnjv-kU2XY-gR9f5XVEVadg0WiMe9iXJicKV5cYhBOyIfqQnqYw9HR75W0kAxlRIL9/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8rx-vKoUTmg3GvxR3JqyfmBRym0DwUlbNzvprvBFNZ-56lR_F6L7yV7swWjkTsCeNC2BkkJNZgEnjv-kU2XY-gR9f5XVEVadg0WiMe9iXJicKV5cYhBOyIfqQnqYw9HR75W0kAxlRIL9/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+026.JPG" height="90" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a view to wake up to</td></tr>
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After I had dried off and warmed up a bit I finally drifted off to sleep, only to be woken at just past 10PM by a strange noise. Listening carefully, I realised that it was two tawny owls calling to each other. Now that was a sound I could fall asleep to.<br />
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I also heard someone walking past my tent during the evening; perhaps a late dog walker or someone out to watch the stars? When I woke up I realised that someone else had set a tent up just down the path from ours and was up early fishing in the loch. On the plus side, it had finally stopped raining.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bit of history</td></tr>
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We made our way up to the road to discover we had camped just outside Bunarkaig. It was roughly half an hour's road walk to Clunes, where I found a picnic bench and unpacked my stove and hot chocolate sachets for a warm breakfast. The sachet I'd chosen refused to open, so I took out my penknife and managed to slice my thumb whilst cutting the packet open. It can only happen to me. Luckily I had several plasters in my bag so wrapped one around my thumb and carried on making the drink.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYRd_YqxagdRhDQuOB5AoI_bdh7I_sycfNhMH2M5jzqKG7gCuvy71Fcw6ZKD312eAdO8HqTNhG8Ev5BRtFoFwb2WUeSECcVRcLxUQM3GBMo4LLMJeUF8EmqrBUVuiYxjyTWYtWAesCqhR/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYRd_YqxagdRhDQuOB5AoI_bdh7I_sycfNhMH2M5jzqKG7gCuvy71Fcw6ZKD312eAdO8HqTNhG8Ev5BRtFoFwb2WUeSECcVRcLxUQM3GBMo4LLMJeUF8EmqrBUVuiYxjyTWYtWAesCqhR/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+029.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Clunes Forest School</td></tr>
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However I had to use every single one of my stormproof (!) matches to light the stove. In yesterday's downpour the box had gotten damp, even whilst being tucked away inside my rucksack. The box, apparently, wasn't stormproof and it was only with a bit of persistence that I finally managed to strike one of the matches on a tiny dry section of the box. Making a mental note to buy some more matches at the next village, I drank my hot chocolate and we continued on our journey to Laggan.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5fw9dBLIHkAScyed_q9tR7rVsB73tglK1wao-TvTDDT1Dg3jGZdvp-ZynSnkHu4iQnEmz4EDomX39PaL0sDcTGHAadBlQHHcTKGJYncgMrs0GsobXd_6tXOb-6Wn1vzGvNKkymiGux4gA/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5fw9dBLIHkAScyed_q9tR7rVsB73tglK1wao-TvTDDT1Dg3jGZdvp-ZynSnkHu4iQnEmz4EDomX39PaL0sDcTGHAadBlQHHcTKGJYncgMrs0GsobXd_6tXOb-6Wn1vzGvNKkymiGux4gA/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+033.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A distant mountain</td></tr>
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A sign at the forest school announced that Laggan was only seven miles away. I figured I may even be able to make it to Fort Augustus that day as it was still only ten in the morning. It would be nice to have a little rest day to explore, but we shall see.<br />
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As it turned out, the sign lied. It was an enjoyable walk on a wide track through forest, with occasional glaces of Loch Lochy to the side and snow-covered mountains in the far distance. We met a fair few walkers today, some on their way to Laggan and others coming from the other direction.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3g6nY_swDOYwSOsJpbiqtmILi-FAHGxRQ2ltO6moLYZek3MhZ5LEngnmPzY__fE2SAEbVoqMjvVdFniV8dcUkYo1_fr9egw2VeTwVOWSVXZ6tnjkkcn4jmyAJfW8DxlWlZlPgHMWTxOqs/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3g6nY_swDOYwSOsJpbiqtmILi-FAHGxRQ2ltO6moLYZek3MhZ5LEngnmPzY__fE2SAEbVoqMjvVdFniV8dcUkYo1_fr9egw2VeTwVOWSVXZ6tnjkkcn4jmyAJfW8DxlWlZlPgHMWTxOqs/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+038.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cheeky smile at a mini waterfall</td></tr>
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The track wound through the trees at the side of the loch, sometimes gaining a little ground so the views across to the other side were fantastic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyTrVa85lx7HaIrPz1GnvBfHEVB7RvND8NG2-w0litOKwtV-FWmBCW5egCxdDO-gpyxDSyRY1_RQ5wiX8qIMu7JJwLO2IFXpdobemKFn9eW6RVCTYznmnmJSRU6lH3jJgbsjvMO3_jjyo/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyTrVa85lx7HaIrPz1GnvBfHEVB7RvND8NG2-w0litOKwtV-FWmBCW5egCxdDO-gpyxDSyRY1_RQ5wiX8qIMu7JJwLO2IFXpdobemKFn9eW6RVCTYznmnmJSRU6lH3jJgbsjvMO3_jjyo/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+040.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The rain continued to hold off and thankfully we hadn't met any of the infamous midges yet. My main reason for doing this walk in early May was to avoid them, as I've heard a few horror stories about how people have run out of their tents in the night, clawing desperately at their flesh and eyes as the little blighters ate them alive. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsVOvUYiARNnmNDRdBmWtRth0XgeYLqOSzdWCjjBw-8OCnuMlZ8iVunox9JwabVJRTRnn8Ej5wIigZmav_7kp2V2kdi3UKUM6MUF9-8ZRqp7PJcHrfjCa1FIMeHzOkqJuBQeXNf4Vbijj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsVOvUYiARNnmNDRdBmWtRth0XgeYLqOSzdWCjjBw-8OCnuMlZ8iVunox9JwabVJRTRnn8Ej5wIigZmav_7kp2V2kdi3UKUM6MUF9-8ZRqp7PJcHrfjCa1FIMeHzOkqJuBQeXNf4Vbijj/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+043.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of chaffinches along the route</td></tr>
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The trees were alive with birdsong, which is one of the reasons why spring is my favourite season for walking. After hearing my first cuckoo of the year on Tuesday, I was now hearing them constantly throughout each day. I never understand people who walk or run with earphones in, listening to music. I actually saw a couple of people doing this on the GGW. Nature's soundtrack is the best one you could possibly listen to, so why cover it up with music you can listen to any other time?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqllbsJVT6D2Efv1vYIooZmzngHkY5E8j8YKViDCTxlQ6SKQCf5_yg5-Yep6HOs8822O0rkUY9TQ4hG7Z4anMPT_gtshAJJxGNU4Mv0su6Xn4HcsNAzvJXW7s4IP1ZYmYgm-ovc-otT9Z/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqllbsJVT6D2Efv1vYIooZmzngHkY5E8j8YKViDCTxlQ6SKQCf5_yg5-Yep6HOs8822O0rkUY9TQ4hG7Z4anMPT_gtshAJJxGNU4Mv0su6Xn4HcsNAzvJXW7s4IP1ZYmYgm-ovc-otT9Z/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+046.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best buds</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF-ppI-4LneDvy2vZ4boAlrvwIQUvG9qp6UAvB7J0_CP5o5CgDP9suJZAHg5h295k0wiuUu41_6uuiiucEw56d72GcSnmcHh-2DSsYXAo5go52pN2HBC64yb1u3vHoQDqEGRIzPsQ0aZis/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF-ppI-4LneDvy2vZ4boAlrvwIQUvG9qp6UAvB7J0_CP5o5CgDP9suJZAHg5h295k0wiuUu41_6uuiiucEw56d72GcSnmcHh-2DSsYXAo5go52pN2HBC64yb1u3vHoQDqEGRIzPsQ0aZis/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+048.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Great Glen stretches out in front of us</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqX9L9KsS_cXu-KJDZOSXUk8W_rxJWyXyPryIMqb0NPpGupTb1V9z8DCaxurqOj0e_WU5m6gnoUNpVAoz4k5qI4GdVkr57DPF-yGghUiXs-2q5AaF2QeAXRRXyPORW7LrTCVdhtcBsVLkQ/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqX9L9KsS_cXu-KJDZOSXUk8W_rxJWyXyPryIMqb0NPpGupTb1V9z8DCaxurqOj0e_WU5m6gnoUNpVAoz4k5qI4GdVkr57DPF-yGghUiXs-2q5AaF2QeAXRRXyPORW7LrTCVdhtcBsVLkQ/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+050.JPG" height="45" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And again</td></tr>
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We reached a junction where a sign pointed up another track directing walkers to the nearest Munro. No thanks, I think this walk is enough for me. Perhaps another time. A Munro is a mountain over 3,000 feet high for those who aren't sure. Some people are insanely fit and like to jog up them before breakfast.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5BoMjXOQC_CGVNnlOTN1JFh8tlOfmgyNNHV0tdT9ZdtyhRKa8vFr86hO_Y5fhWDS4G9Df3ktm10FDmEIrFVC5KAqk7WrZ6ePd14v-tp6Dfdj4z8_3PGQHBil3n_umnStcgIm8jIr2htaT/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5BoMjXOQC_CGVNnlOTN1JFh8tlOfmgyNNHV0tdT9ZdtyhRKa8vFr86hO_Y5fhWDS4G9Df3ktm10FDmEIrFVC5KAqk7WrZ6ePd14v-tp6Dfdj4z8_3PGQHBil3n_umnStcgIm8jIr2htaT/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+055.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South Laggan</td></tr>
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It was nearly half past one before I finally saw the beautiful sight of South Laggan to my right. Hmm, perhaps I wouldn't be getting to Fort Augustus tonight after all. Sybil's lead was clipped on due to the sheepies on the road and we looked for somewhere dog-friendly to have a hot meal. A sign fastened to a fence claimed the Eagle, a boat that also happened to be a pub serving meals, was open 11am til late at night. More lies. I got there and it was closed. </div>
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Hmm, never mind. We continued on to North Laggan, another two and a half miles away, where we found the Great Glen Water Park. I tied Sybil up outside and asked the lady on reception if they had any free dog-friendly rooms for the night. Unfortunately not, as the lodges were booked through Hoseasons. We were welcome to use their restaurant though. I ordered cheese panini and salad for us both and, thinking I would be able to get accommodation of some sort in Fort Augustus, asked the lad if there were any buses running through the village. Yes, there would be one pretty soon.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4scHSr5h93d4HfsWGJ94Da-hErwtpAUgEOPULw_9o1J4arycltP41_17qOvmycCBqVm1BdeX7Nv9METjawAhDYSCNlPHTcpFrbt-_zVkWHvasrig0qMUI3mxqIszT2iCvnh0-qIo63_u/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4scHSr5h93d4HfsWGJ94Da-hErwtpAUgEOPULw_9o1J4arycltP41_17qOvmycCBqVm1BdeX7Nv9METjawAhDYSCNlPHTcpFrbt-_zVkWHvasrig0qMUI3mxqIszT2iCvnh0-qIo63_u/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+061.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Invergarry Castle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyhSFHGhpTMYqvMXL1KG9RtXMDt5MawFwqLfpsBnoiEWniPUgskjCswTIQCUWvjpFu57DcHvmdxcyN7abPHwhNkFsPibazfXTkihz4Iq0m1AlvBn8BzjnyWfSHX_nivBjuu5-OrVch_U_c/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyhSFHGhpTMYqvMXL1KG9RtXMDt5MawFwqLfpsBnoiEWniPUgskjCswTIQCUWvjpFu57DcHvmdxcyN7abPHwhNkFsPibazfXTkihz4Iq0m1AlvBn8BzjnyWfSHX_nivBjuu5-OrVch_U_c/s1600/Great+Glen+Way+7-12+May+2014+063.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hmm, bet they don't have blisters</td></tr>
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We finished our meal and made it to the bus stop in the nick of time. The bus pulled up and opened his doors, then informed us that unfortunately dogs were not allowed on the bus. At first I was rather offended, but then I realised he meant Sybil. With no choice but to carry on walking now, I was just hoping we would strike lucky again and find another suitable wild camping spot.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home for the night</td></tr>
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As luck would have it there was a perfect spot just a couple more miles down the route, complete with bench and well-used campfire. The bench came in handy for spreading my sleeping bag and fleeces on to air them a little, after the damp day yesterday. The pitch overlooked our second loch of the trip, Loch Oich. I borrowed a bit of the water from the loch for some washing before retiring to the tent for the night. A pretty enjoyable day with a fair amount of solitude and pleasant forest walking. I was beginning to realise that even though most of the track to either side was surrounded by trees or a drop to a loch below, there would usually be a suitable grass verge somewhere of a big enough size to pitch the tent on. I decided to just stop worrying about such things and enjoy the trip for what it was, a bit of freedom.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499759182301969908.post-44702721772087791542014-05-15T12:46:00.001-07:002014-05-15T12:46:36.687-07:00The Great Glen Way: Day one - Fort William to Gairlochy<br />
Wednesday the 7th of May was the start of our six-day walk to Inverness. We woke up at 7.30am in our tent at the Glen Nevis campsite to the sound of rain hitting canvas. I lingered in my sleeping bag for a while but it became clear that the rain wasn't going to stop anytime soon. It took a while to stuff my wet tent back into its bag and after I'd dressed, packed up and visited the campsite shop for our dinner for the next two days, it was getting on for 9am.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So it begins</td></tr>
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The rain eased off a bit as we arrived into Fort William, but grey clouds still loomed over us so I decided we should keep our wet weather gear on (yes, Sybil wears a waterproof coat too. She isn't friends with the rain). The Great Glen Way has a slightly uninspiring start directly from the train station and through the nearby Morrisons car park before heading away on a path in front of some houses where Sybil could stretch her legs.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passing Caol</td></tr>
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There was a bit of road-walking as we made our way through Caol, where I stopped at a cafe to have a moral-boosting cup of hot chocolate and something warm for breakfast. Sybil had already eaten, but she still shared a little of my fried egg sandwich. The Way passed a slim shingle beach where the local birdlife was still out in force despite the persistent rain. I saw a wheatear, a flock of oystercatchers on the shinty pitch, sand martins swooping low all around us and my first hooded crow.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bedraggled hooded crow</td></tr>
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We were suddently instructed to veer right by a GGW signpost as we reached the start of the Caledonian Canal, which was to be our almost constant companion all the way to Gairlochy. The walk finally felt "official"; now if only the rain would stop!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calendonian Canal</td></tr>
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Unfortunately it was not to be as the heavens continued to pour on us all day, save for a half-hour break about eight miles out of Fort William. We soon reached Neptune's Staircase, which is a pretty impressive set of eight locks that allows boats to ascend or descend the slope. No pictures though, as the rain was still beating down and I didn't want to risk my camera getting wet.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still marching along the canal</td></tr>
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There were some nice views of the hills and mountains of the Glen quite close at hand. Closer to Gairlochy it was possible to look back and see the snow-patched slopes of Ben Nevis in the distance. We stopped to have lunch and had a quick chat with several couples who had started the Great Glen Way the same day as us. Unlike us though they were all off to cushy B&Bs at the end of the day, while we had to try our best to dry off in our tent. Ah well, at least we had chosen the cheaper (free) option.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDxwp6XDTxiAPN8NGcNGLF0-91I_Z8eV5qOA1QhyphenhyphenN0p75aN7m8QhzkCa1ZwkrSXq9F78xCGnAjXtff0MMobx55xrqxXlk5ZbsE3oKiXRueKtBdpysONnUED2nDGjAC-XRjjKUq6UgSQc4/s1600/DSCF0813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDxwp6XDTxiAPN8NGcNGLF0-91I_Z8eV5qOA1QhyphenhyphenN0p75aN7m8QhzkCa1ZwkrSXq9F78xCGnAjXtff0MMobx55xrqxXlk5ZbsE3oKiXRueKtBdpysONnUED2nDGjAC-XRjjKUq6UgSQc4/s1600/DSCF0813.JPG" height="90" width="320" /></a></div>
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We were stopped at the Moy swing bridge while a farmer directed her flock of sheep and their lambs across to the other side of the canal. I had a chat to one of the couples we had met and found out they lived in Inverness and were walking home. A bit less travelling than us to do then!<br />
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The rain was really coming down now and instead of pausing at Gairlochy, we carried on into the forest to find somewhere a bit more sheltered to spend the night. Camping was permitted at Gairlochy locks but it was only half three in the afternoon and I didn't want to be sitting around bored in the tent while the rain carried on. I wanted get a bit more distance covered so we had a headstart the following morning.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our home for the night</td></tr>
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In the forest was a little fairy garden with gnomes and fairies set around the trees. Unfortunately with the rain dampening my spirits, I didn't take the time to explore it and I wish I had done now. The rain started to ease off a little and I found a nice grassy area between the path and the road at the side of Loch Lochy to pitch the tent for the night. After such a wet first day, I could only hope for better weather for us in the morning. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08986054395218646622noreply@blogger.com0